SKU: EC.RBM-124

This composition was commissioned in 2015 by the City of Fairfax Band and was premiered by that ensemble incollaboration with the Fairfax Choral Society on December 19 ^th of that year, under the baton of Robert J. Pouliot. The work was originally scored for symphonic wind ensemble and SATB chorus and has subsequently been transcribed for use in an orchestral/choral platform with the same voicing. (3.3.3.3, 4.3.3.1, timp. 3 perc., harp & strings).

The work is a setting of two Catholic liturgical texts traditionally associated with the season of Advent: Hodie, Christus Natus Est and O Magnum Mysterium. The work is a traditional arch-form in onemovement, a setting of the more reflective O Magnum Mysterium text being framed by a more ebullient and assertive treatment of the Hodie, Christus Natus Est text. There are passages of declamatory and angular rhythmic statements throughout, interspersed with contrasting sections of broad lyricism and reflectiveness. The piece begins and ends with triumphant brass and choral textures. 

This work is suitable for any Christmas program, especially as an opening or closing number.

No vocal soloists are called for in the performance of this work.

SKU: HL.48024856

ISBN 9781784545598. UPC: 840126910803. 7.5x10.25x0.03 inches.

From one of the UK's bright, emerging choral composers, Rhiannon Randle, is this sublime setting of the familiar Latin text. O nata lux is a personal reflection on the compelling and timeless choral atmosphere depicted by the famous Thomas Tallis setting of these words. Dedicated to the memory of Randle's late grandmother, the work balances a sense of intimate prayer and meditation with a spiritual declamation of the “light born of light.” To see hope and new life in despair and death - for in the darkness we have seena great light - chimes as much with the season of Advent as it does with personal loss. The lilting homophony of the opening is characterised by light tenuti, intended to provide a sense of gentle ebb and flow, almost as if to accentuate the natural emphases of speech. This then broadens into a polyphonic cascade, which hints at Bruckner as much as paying homage to Tallis's own setting. O nata lux is an exciting addition to the Contemporary Choral Series, suitable for intermediate to advanced choirs looking to support and program new music by outstanding young composers.