O magnum mysterium

A highly expressive, new a cappella setting of this traditional Christmas text. Carefully prepared dissonances and judicious use of close harmonies thoughtfully paint the text. The work concludes with the opening material sung on “Alleluia”  over which a soprano descant soars. A sense of awe and wonder permeate this setting.  A poetic translation is included that allows the work to be performed in English or Latin.

Movement 4 from Venite Adoremus

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(O greatest, most holy embodiment)
O magnum mysterium,
et admirabile sacramentum,
ut animalia viderent
Dominum natum, iacentem in praesepio!

Beata Virgo, cujus viscera meruerunt
Portare Dominum Christum. Alleluia!

Domine, audivi auditum tuum et timui; c
onsideravi opera tua et expavi
in medio duorum animalium.

O greatest, most holy embodiment,
our affirmation, now come to live with us,
oh that these animals should see the new-born Lord
Now lying in a manger low!

Most Blessed Virgin whose vessel pure was
worthy to bear Emmanuel, God’s son. Alleluia.

Lord most high, I see you,
and wonder fills my heart with awe,
when I consider your blessed birthing has transpired
amid a meek and humble animals’ stable.

Composed as the a cappella centerpiece of Venite Adoremus:

Experience the majesty, mystery, and wonder of the Nativity with Venite Adoremus, a new 5 movement work for choir, soprano, bass, and orchestra. The work centers around the text “Venite Adormeus” (O Come Let’s Us Adore Him), tells the story of the Nativity according to the Gospel of Luke, as well includes a more intimate portrait of the birth in two a cappella settings: the Shepherds carol by Margaret Deland and the traditional O Magnum Mysterium (O Great Mystery). It was commissioned for the annual Christmas Festival at Dallas Baptist University.

I. Adeste Fidelis
II. Shepherd’s Carol
III. And there was in the same country
IV. O Magnum Mysterium
V. By the splendor of the heavens

Key Features:

  • Language: Latin and English or English only (at the choice of the conductor)
  • Forces: SATB choir, soprano, baritone or bass solo
  • Choice of performing forces:
    • Keyboard Only (organ or piano)
    • Chamber Orchestra (13+players)
      Fl. Ob, Horn, 2-Bb Tpt.,+ hp. + timp + 1 perc. + Str.
    • Full Orchestra (27+ players)
      2.2.2.2 – 4.3.3.1 + hp. + timp + 1 perc. + Str

An Ancient Christmas Mystery of O Magnum Mysterium

The Latin text O Magnum Mysterium is one of the most revered responsorial chants in Christian history. Its roots trace back to the Medieval Church, where it was sung during the Matins service on Christmas morning. The text translates to “O Great Mystery.” It describes the absolute wonder of Christ’s birth. Specifically, it highlights the humble animals gazing upon the newborn Lord lying in a manger. For over five centuries, iconic composers have set these beautiful words to music. Famous versions include Renaissance works by Tomás Luis de Victoria and modern masterworks by Morten Lauridsen.
In 2020, American composer Michael John Trotta added his own voice to this long tradition. He wrote his setting of O Magnum Mysterium as part of a larger work. It serves as the fourth movement of his five-movement Christmas suite, titled Venite Adoremus. Trotta was deeply inspired by the past. When he began composing, he wanted to pay a direct tribute to Victoria’s classic Renaissance version. To do this, he used a descending fifth interval in the opening melody. This musical nod links his modern piece to centuries of choral history.
Renaissance Roots (Victoria)  ──>  2020 Christmas Suite  ──>  Modern Choral Sound
 [Descending 5th Interval]        [Movement 4 of Venite]       [Close, Awe-Filled Harmonies]

Trotta’s Sound and Structure

Trotta’s composition is written for an unaccompanied, four-part mixed choir (SATB). While the larger suite can include an orchestra, this specific movement relies entirely on a cappella voices. Trotta believed that the raw human voice was the perfect medium to capture the quiet mood of a stable. The piece is built around carefully prepared dissonances and close harmonies. These musical choices build tension and release, painting a vivid picture of holy awe and infinite wonder.
The piece features a medium-easy difficulty level, making it highly accessible for both high school choirs and professional ensembles. To add flexibility, Trotta included a poetic English translation so choirs can perform it in either Latin or English. The composition builds to a stunning climax before returning to its quiet roots. It concludes with the opening musical themes sung on a peaceful “Alleluia.” As the piece fades out, a soprano descant soars high above the choir, leaving the listener with a final sense of peace and mystery.

Download the Official PDF Sheet Music at hamptonroadsmusicgroup.com

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