Stabat Mater Symphony (Movement I)

Over the centuries, there has been a vast array of music composed which is founded in holy beliefs, carrying with it, amongst many other things, a most powerful image. The music that springs from the Marian tradition, from the 12th century to this day, has as its single dedication, the poignant moment where a mother is witness to the suffering of her child.  This symphony is a tribute to the Stabat Mater poem, which depicts the sorrowful journey of the Virgin Mary at the foot of the cross as her son, Jesus, suffers and dies.

With the Stabat Mater Symphony, my intention is to craft a profoundly reflective composition that delves into the core themes of faith, suffering and hope encapsulated within the Stabat Mater. The opening movement embraces a recurring musical motif that guides the listener through a transformative journey while maintaining thematic coherence. This movement, reminiscent of the evolving prayers of the Rosary, unveils the motif's changing and profound intentions with each iteration.

Following a fanfare flourish from the trumpets, the delicate motif emerges to capture our attention, setting the stage for the symphonic exploration that lies ahead. As the movement unfolds, the motif evolves, revealing new dimensions while remaining true to its essence. Nearing its zenith, the motif reaches its fullest transformation, culminating in a climactic moment of revelation and transformative release, unveiling music's profound power to transcend and transfigure. Mary Finsterer