Before the Ice (O Magnum Mysterium)
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Author Description
for SSAATTBB unaccompaniedCombining the evocative Emily Dickinson poem Before the ice and the familiar Latin responsory for Christmas day O magnum mysterium, this carol has beautifully rich textures and harmonies and a sensitive text setting that captures the mystery and wonder of Christmas. The final alleluias lift the carol from the minor to the major to bring the carol to a radiant and affirmatory conclusion. Before the ice features on the Naxos CD of Bob Chilcott's Christmas music, The Rose in the Middle of Winter.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
This work investigates the intersection of secular poetry and sacred liturgical text to create a unified musical expression of the Christmas season. Composer Bob Chilcott utilizes the juxtaposition of Emily Dickinson’s verse and the O magnum mysterium responsory to explore themes of winter stillness and divine mystery through a sophisticated choral framework.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- A musical setting for SSAATTBB unaccompanied choir
- Integration of Emily Dickinson's poetry with traditional Latin liturgical text
- Harmonic progression from minor to major tonality
Scope Limits
- This text does not provide historical analysis of the O magnum mysterium text itself
- It does not include performance instructions or vocal technique exercises
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Choral directors and musicologists frequently cite this piece for its effective use of rich textures and sensitive text setting. It is widely regarded as a standard contemporary addition to the Christmas choral repertoire for advanced ensembles.
Page Count:
24
Publication Date:
2014-08-28
Publisher:
Oxford University Press Music
ISBN-10:
0193394723
ISBN-13:
9780193394728
Music
Musical Genres
Choral Music
Christmas
Sheet Music
Songbooks
Classical
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