We have a collection of 4 arrangements for Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - Ave verum corpus, K.618
Why did Mozart compose this short but profound motet just months before his death? Learn!
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Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's "Ave verum corpus," K. 618 is a beautiful and famous choral work. Here are some interesting facts about it:
Composition Date: Mozart composed "Ave verum corpus" on June 17, 1791, during the final year of his life. It is one of his last compositions.
Purpose: Mozart wrote this motet for Anton Stoll, who was the choirmaster at St. Stephen's Cathedral in Baden, near Vienna. It was intended for use during the celebration of the Feast of Corpus Christi.
Short and Sublime: "Ave verum corpus" is a short choral work, consisting of only 46 bars of music. Despite its brevity, it is considered one of Mozart's most sublime compositions.
Musical Style: This piece is written in a simple and elegantly restrained style, with a focus on clarity and expressiveness. It reflects Mozart's ability to convey deep emotion with economy of means.
Text: The text of "Ave verum corpus" is a Latin hymn that praises the body of Christ, emphasizing the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. It has been set to music by various composers throughout history, but Mozart's setting is among the most renowned.
Choral Harmony: Mozart's composition showcases his mastery of choral harmony and counterpoint. It is known for its serene and contemplative atmosphere.
Popularity: "Ave verum corpus" remains a popular piece for both religious and concert performances. Its profound beauty has made it a staple in the repertoire of many choirs and vocal ensembles.
Influence: Mozart's setting of "Ave verum corpus" has had a lasting influence on later composers, inspiring them to explore similar themes of spirituality and devotion in their compositions.
Manuscript: The original manuscript of "Ave verum corpus" is preserved in the Österreichische Nationalbibliothek (Austrian National Library) in Vienna, Austria, where it serves as a testament to Mozart's genius.
Legacy: This short motet continues to be admired for its timeless beauty and spiritual depth, reminding us of Mozart's ability to create transcendent music that resonates with audiences to this day.
"Ave verum corpus" is a testament to Mozart's ability to create profound and emotionally resonant music, even in shorter compositions. It remains a cherished work in the choral and classical music repertoire.