Composer

:

César Franck

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Mass

Compose Date

:

1860

Publication Date

:

1872

Average_duration

:

48:22

Movement_count

:

6

Movement ....

César Franck's Messe solennelle, Op. 12, M. 61, is a choral work composed in 1860. It premiered on October 24, 1861, at the Sainte-Clotilde church in Paris, where Franck was the organist. The mass is divided into six movements: Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, Benedictus, and Agnus Dei. The Messe solennelle is characterized by its grandeur and solemnity, as well as its use of polyphonic textures and rich harmonies. Franck's use of chromaticism and modulation adds to the complexity of the work, creating a sense of tension and release throughout the mass. The Kyrie begins with a simple melody sung by the choir, which is then repeated and developed by the orchestra. The Gloria is a jubilant movement, featuring a fugue and a soaring soprano solo. The Credo is the longest movement of the mass, and it is marked by its use of polyphony and complex harmonies. The Sanctus is a majestic movement, featuring a brass fanfare and a soaring melody sung by the choir. The Benedictus is a more subdued movement, featuring a solo quartet and a gentle melody. The Agnus Dei is a solemn and prayerful movement, featuring a solo soprano and a richly harmonized choir. Overall, Franck's Messe solennelle is a masterful work that showcases his skill as a composer and his deep understanding of choral music. Its grandeur and solemnity make it a popular choice for performances in churches and concert halls around the world.

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