Lumen Symphony

Inspired by the profound poetic verses of Hildegard von Bingen's 'O Verbum Patris’, Lumen Symphony emerges as a musical response to themes of wisdom, creation and the radiant power of light.

Composed for the MSO in 2023 as part of my composer-in-residency, this symphony encompasses Lumen Prime Aurore, an orchestral work I composed for the MSO in 2021. Derived from the evocative words of Hildegard von Bingen's poem, the title of this short work encapsulates the essence of "first dawn's light" and pays homage not only to the poet's inspiring verse but also bears a direct connection to the research that I undertook for my opera about Antarctica where, within the South Polar Circle, a miraculous display of colourful lights known as the Aurora is created as a result of electrically charged particles from solar winds interacting with meteorological gases as they enter the Earth’s atmosphere. Within the larger symphonic framework, Lumen Prime Aurore becomes a vital thread that weaves its own narrative to serve as a catalyst for further development and contrast, enhancing thematic unity and contributing to the overall musical journey. A defining feature of the Lumen Symphony is its concertante structure, with the solo viola taking on a prominent role in Movements I, III and V. Throughout these movements, the solo viola engages in a dialogue with the orchestra, showcasing its expressive capabilities and intertwining its voice with the symphonic fabric. As the symphony unfolds, it invites the audience on an exploration of colour and texture, where the luminous themes of Hildegard von Bingen's poem find musical resonance.

Lumen Symphony is dedicated to Brenton Broadstock on the momentous occasion of his 70th Birthday and is commissioned by the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra with generous support from Kim Williams AM.

Mary Finsterer