Author Description
for SATB (with divisions), oboe, and organThe text combines the nineteenth-century poet and Christian minister George MacDonald's emotive poem Lost and Found with the 'In paradisum' antiphon from the Burial Service in the Liber Usualis. The music is at times ethereal, melancholic, poignant, and life-affirming. The solo oboe and organ writing is integral to the emotive character of the piece, and the word-painting and angelic chorus moments encourage the listener to reflect on the subject at hand.The Quest is featured on the Collegium Records CD The Gift of Life. An orchestration for chamber ensemble (solo oboe, harp, and strings) is available on hire/rental.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
This work investigates the intersection of nineteenth-century poetic themes and liturgical tradition through the medium of choral composition. Composer John Rutter utilizes the text of George MacDonald’s poem 'Lost and Found' alongside the 'In paradisum' antiphon to explore themes of mortality and spiritual transition. The composition serves as a structured musical reflection, integrating specific instrumentation to heighten the emotive quality of the source texts.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- SATB choral arrangement with vocal divisions
- Instrumental accompaniment for oboe and organ
- Integration of Victorian poetry and Latin liturgical text
Scope Limits
- Does not provide a comprehensive biography of George MacDonald
- Does not offer a general history of the Liber Usualis
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Musicologists and choral directors frequently identify this piece as a significant example of contemporary sacred choral writing. Experts highlight the technical integration of the oboe and organ as a defining characteristic of Rutter's compositional style.
Page Count:
16
Publication Date:
2015-01-01
Publisher:
Oxford University Press Music
ISBN-10:
0193413426
ISBN-13:
9780193413429
Music
Musical Genres
Classical
Choral Music
Sheet Music
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