O Virtus Sapientiae

This delicate and hauntingly beautiful arrangement of Hildegard von Bingen’s beloved chant “O Virtus Sapientiae” (English: O strength of Wisdom) is great opener, processional, and/or selection for concerts celebrating music composed by women.

English translation:

O strength of Wisdom! Circling, you surround and encompass all in one life-giving path. Three wings you have: one soars high above, one emanates from the earth, and the third flies all around. Praise be to you, as is fitting, O Wisdom!

Conductor’s note
“O Virtus Sapientiae is an atmospheric work for choirs looking to include an ode to renaissance music through a modern setting. It feels fresh and an ‘inroad’ for a choir looking to try their hand at renaissance chant. 'O Virtus' requires two confident soloists with strong sense of pitch accuracy who are willing to explore the natural ebbs and flows of the chant. The choir part is deceivingly ‘easy’ with moments of cluster chords and slow addition of more voices to the free chant. Note – Do not be afraid to adjust the key of this piece to best help your choir find the widest variety of overtone colours.” — Elise Naccarato, Myriad Ensemble, Artistic Director

This arrangement was commissioned by the Orpheus Choir of Toronto, Artistic Director Robert Cooper, and premiered on March 8, 2019, at Grace Church on-the-Hill in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.