26th Annual Student Research Conference
Symbolism and Structure in Messiaen's O Sacrum Convivum!
Mark A. Woodcock♦
Dr. Warren Gooch, Faculty Mentor
Composed in 1937, O Sacrum Convivium! is Olivier Messiaen's sole choral motet. The Latin text stands as a celebration for the miracle of the Eucharist. The religious nature of the piece is reflected by the compositional devices and choices made by Messiaen. Analysis reveals the use of harmonic repetition, pitch stasis, parallel motion, modes of limited transposition, isorhythm, and symbolism. This presentation will focus on an analysis of the piece and will show how Messiaen used these compositional devices as a means to express the text's religious content.
Keywords: Music Analysis, Vocal Music, Messiaen, Symbolism
Topic(s):Music
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 202-2
Location: OP 2117
Time: 9:45