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This word is repeated twice in just the opening line (and again when it is repeated), and Lauridsen’s use of melismatic text setting here is prevalent and incredibly effective. Lauridsen follows this trend throughout, and there are some very striking melismatic sections that follow. The opening reciting tone is repeated throughout the piece, and this gives emphasis on the word ‘mystery’.
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The reciting tone, which is introduced at the beginning of the work from the sopranos, is a slow-moving line based around A. The combination of both the old and new creates one of the most resonating settings of this text that’s ever been created. The modern side of this work can be heard from Lauridsen’s use of ethereal harmonies and dense sustained lines, which culminate in ‘heavenly’ cluster chords. Due to the roots of O Magnum Mysterium, there are clear points in which Lauridsen is utilising Gregorian Chant, for example his use of the lydian mode, which can be heard initially from the opening soprano line. The score presents a musical dichotomy between old and new. That animals should see the new-born Lord, It is used as the plainsong antiphon for Midnight Mass (ie – it is sung before readings). The text of O Magnum Mysterium is, at its core, a chant used at Christmastime. However, this work has also been orchestrated for wind orchestra and brass band, which are both popular with instrumental ensembles. Undoubtedly his more performed work is his setting of O Magnum Mysterium.Ĭomposed as a commission from the LA Master Chorale in 1994, O Magnum Mysterium is most famous for the original SATB choral version.
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Arguably, Lauridsen’s most influential works are his choral pieces. His large catalogue of works span a number of different genres including concertos, orchestral works, and chamber works. To date, Lauridsen is one of the most frequently performed living composers in the world. After making his career change slightly later in life, Lauridsen graduated from his music degree and began teaching composition. Whilst growing up, Lauridsen didn’t consider a career in music, and he initially studied English and History at university. He has received medals, awards and honorary doctorates from a plethora of different institutions and organisations over the course of his career. He is currently a distinguished Professor of Music at the University of Southern California Thornton School of Music. By far the most popular piece to come from Lauridsen’s pen is his setting of O Magnum Mysterium. Morton Lauridsen is known today as one of the leading choral composers, due to his extensive collection of works, recordings and awards he’s picked up along the way. Morton Lauridsen: O Magnum Mysterium Context