Cantata for the Divine Hours (2025)

for Solo Soprano, string quartet, organ, trumpet, horn, and SATB.

Duration: 1 Hour

Composed for the 100th anniversary of St. Norbert Abbey, Cantata for the Divine Hours is inspired by the stained glass windows of the Abbey church. The divine hours, or liturgy of the hours, is a set of prayers, psalms, hymns, and canticles prayed by Catholics, particularly clergy, at specific times throughout the day. Each liturgical hour has its own set of texts. The work is specifically structured around the North Clerestory Windows depicting Vespers (evening prayer), Compline (night prayer), Antiphons of Mary (after night prayer), Matins (early morning prayer), and Lauds (morning prayer). The finale is based on the Great West Window above the entrance of the church, which prominently displays the Holy Trinity and St. Norbert.

For images of the windows and more detailed notes, consult the Program.

Read an article about the Cantata here.

Live Recordings: Sarah Parks, Conductor; Yi-lan Niu, Soprano Soloist