Composer

:

John Tavener

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Hymn

Compose Date

:

1992

Average_duration

:

10:52

Hymns of Paradise is a choral work composed by John Tavener in 1990. It was premiered on 17th November 1990 at the Royal Albert Hall in London, conducted by Stephen Cleobury. The work is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a different text. The first movement, "The Paradise Choir," is based on a text from the Orthodox liturgy. It begins with a solo soprano voice singing a simple melody, which is then taken up by the choir. The music is characterized by its slow, meditative pace and its use of rich harmonies. The second movement, "The Angels," is based on a text from the Gospel of St. Matthew. It features a solo tenor voice singing a melody that is reminiscent of Gregorian chant. The choir provides a gentle, ethereal accompaniment, creating a sense of otherworldliness. The final movement, "The Paradise," is based on a text from the Orthodox liturgy. It begins with a solo soprano voice singing a melody that is similar to the one heard in the first movement. The choir then enters, singing a series of chords that gradually build in intensity. The music reaches a climax before subsiding into a peaceful, meditative conclusion. Overall, Hymns of Paradise is characterized by its use of simple melodies, rich harmonies, and a sense of otherworldliness. The work is deeply spiritual in nature, reflecting Tavener's interest in Eastern Orthodox Christianity. It has become one of his most popular and frequently performed works, and is considered a masterpiece of contemporary choral music.

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