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Ola Gjeilo is a Norwegian composer and pianist known for his contemporary classical and choral compositions. One of his well-known compositions is "Ubi Caritas," which is based on a traditional Latin text often used in liturgical settings. Here are some interesting facts about Ola Gjeilo and "Ubi Caritas":

1. Musical Background: Ola Gjeilo was born in Norway in 1978 and later moved to the United States to study composition at the Juilliard School in New York City. This international exposure has influenced his music, blending European and American musical traditions.

2. Choral and Vocal Works: Gjeilo is highly regarded for his choral and vocal compositions. "Ubi Caritas" is one of his most celebrated choral works. It is a part of his larger choral composition "Tenebrae," which consists of several pieces inspired by the Christian liturgical tradition.

3. Inspiration: "Ubi Caritas" draws its text from a Latin hymn of the same name, which translates to "Where charity and love are, God is there." The text speaks to the themes of love, unity, and God's presence in acts of kindness and charity.

4. Modern Sound: Gjeilo's composition style is characterized by its modern, harmonic language and lush, emotive melodies. "Ubi Caritas" showcases his talent for creating rich, contemporary choral music that resonates with both performers and audiences.

5. Popularity: "Ubi Caritas" has gained widespread popularity in the choral and sacred music world. Many choirs, both amateur and professional, have performed this piece in various settings, including concerts and church services.

6. Broad Appeal: Ola Gjeilo's music, including "Ubi Caritas," has found a broad audience beyond traditional classical music lovers. His compositions often attract listeners who may not be deeply engaged with classical music but are drawn to his accessible and emotionally resonant pieces.

7. Pianist and Composer: In addition to his work as a composer, Ola Gjeilo is an accomplished pianist. He has performed his own compositions and collaborated with other musicians on various projects.

8. Collaborations: Gjeilo has collaborated with many renowned musicians, choirs, and orchestras. His music has been performed worldwide, further cementing his reputation as a prominent contemporary composer.

9. Award-Winning Composer: Ola Gjeilo's work has received critical acclaim, and he has been the recipient of several awards and honors in the field of classical music.

"Ubi Caritas" is just one example of Ola Gjeilo's significant contributions to the world of contemporary choral and classical music. His ability to blend modern harmonies with timeless themes has made him a noteworthy figure in the world of choral composition.