Gabriel Jackson

Ave Maria

Vocal score

Forces or Category: SATB (with divisions) unaccompanied

New Horizons

for SATB (with divisions) unaccompanied
This is a deeply compelling setting of the familiar text. The piece commences with a series of contemplative exchanges between the upper and lower voices; the ensuing, unexpected changes of key and texture are potently effective, and typical of Jackson's compositional style. This very fine motet is suitable for the Feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary and for concert purposes.

Ave Maria

Vocal score

Gabriel Jackson

New Horizons

Description

Programme Notes:

Why compose yet another Ave Maria? After all, there are innumerable other settings of the Angelic Salutation, many of them great masterpieces. Yet any new treatment of even the most familiar words can, I hope, say something unique about them.

I have divided the bipartite text into three sections. In the first, divided sopranos and altos lead the hymning of the Virgin. After an impassioned and anguished outburst ("Sancta Maria, Mater Dei, ora pro nobis"), there follows a solemn

Ave Maria

Vocal score

Gabriel Jackson

New Horizons

Composer Information