Caritas Abundat

Description

Soprano 1, Soprano 2, Alto 1, Alto 2, Violin, Hand Drum, Hand Clap — This commissioned work for women’s choir is an energetic reimagining of a timeless text and tune from the twelfth-century poet, composer and philosopher Hildegard of Bingen. The text was selected as a reflection of the students' desire to express the empowerment that comes from singing in a choir, especially the power of belonging to a group united for a purpose greater than oneself.This piece marries the chant Caritas Abundat with a text taken from Liber Divinorum Operum ("The Book of Divine Works"), creating an entirely new work that expresses themes of empowerment.An adapted quotation of the tune is introduced in the violin, then taken up by the choir, treated to a five-part canon in the more reflective middle section, and finally changes meter for an energetic finish.I am the great and fiery force,That breathes life into all things:I am what awakens and supports lifeAnd enkindles all living thingsI am the great and fiery force,That breathes life into all things:Everything in the cosmosIs encircled with my wisdom.I am the beauty in the fields,The force, that moves like a graceful windI shine in the waters, and burn in the sun,Glimmering in the stars.Caritas abundat in omnia (Grace abounds for everyone)[Liber Divinorum Operum (The Book of Divine Works), I.I.2] Trotta's composition is an energetic reimagining of timeless text and tune from the 12th century poet, composer, and philosopher Hildegard of Bingen. The marriage of the chant Caritas Abundat with a text taken from Liber Divinorum Operum (The Book of Divine Works) creates an entirely new work that expresses themes of empowerment. There is a reflective sense of the empowerment that comes from singing in a choir, especially the power of belonging to a group united for a purpose greater than oneself.

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