Composed in 2012, as the second of two Christmas motets, this short work for unaccompanied five-part choir is a setting of the responsorial chant from the Matins of Christmas.
Set in a simple ternary structure, the outer sections make use of the E Lydian mode, with semitonal chord clusters and hushed, motivic echoes to evoke an other-worldly ambience. The short central section (Beata Virgo…) is largely homophonic and rises to a fortissimo climax on the words “Dominum Christum”.
The reprise of “O magnum mysterium” is even quieter, initially, but concludes with an extended return of the first climax, this time to a single triumphant statement, with unresolved Lydian effect on the word, “Alleluia”.
O magnum mysterium, et admirabile sacramentum, ut animalia viderent Dominum natum, jacentem in praesepio! Beata Virgo, cujus viscera meruerunt portare Dominum Christum. Alleluia.
O great mystery, and wonderful sacrament, that animals should see the new-born Lord, lying in a manger! Blessed is the Virgin whose womb was worthy to bear Christ the Lord. Alleluia!
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