LAudibus in sanctis

Composer -- Uģis Prauliņš
Voicing + performing forces — SATB double choir
Call Number — 4983
Level — Difficult 

Laudibus in Sanctis is a kaleidoscopic setting of Psalm 150 by the Latvian composer Uģis Prauliņš. As the resident composer of Edmonton’s professional choir Pro Coro Canada, it’s no surprise that Prauliņš likes to push the choral medium to a new level! Laudibus in Sanctis is almost symphonic in its choral writing, with independent voices intricately weaving together to create a complex texture. The music is eclectic, showing influences not only of Gregorian chant and Renaissance polyphony, but also modern rock music. The final Hallelujah section is powerful and emotional, building in intensity for nearly two minutes towards an ecstatic final cadence. If this all sounds familiar, it’s because you may have already heard this piece! It was masterfully performed at Edmonton’s Winspear Centre by the National Youth Choir of Canada, with conductor Michael Zaugg, as part of Podium 2016.

Contributed by Stuart Beatch