BELLUM IN CAELO
 

One of the more striking images in the Catholic church is of St. Michael slaying the Dragon.  Depicted in a number of vivid ways, the idea of Michael conquering Satan and causing silence in heaven elicited a cinematic story in my head of this battle – clanging swords, marching armies, and exchanging intimidating words. 

 

Using the text of “Factum Est Silentium” as a base, I imposed additional lyrics that continued this narrative of a battle between Michael and the Dragon; heaven and hell; good and evil.  What’s created as a result are these two characters, represented by the two choirs.  Choir I often plays the role of Michael, while Choir II the Dragon, though at times their character’s lines or ideas can found to exchanged.  The work is divided into three sections: the first being the fight between Michael and the Dragon; the second section being almost like they’ve tired from battle and are exchanging dramatic phrases; the final section is the celebration of victory for Michael

 

Text:                                                                                 Translation:

Bellum in Caelo                                                              War in Heaven 

 

Factum est Silentium                                                 There was silence 

in Caelo dum commiterit bellum draco.               In heaven while war waged with the Dragon.

Dum Michael pugnavit draco                                  And Michael fought the Dragon 

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“Parate perderes, Satanas”                                    "Prepare to perish, Satan" 
“Vincere non potes, Michael”                                "You can't win, Michael" 
 

“Ego sum ignis et Tenebrae.                                  "I am fire and darkness. 

Timete me.”                                                                 "Fear me.

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“Ego sum custodia caelorum.                               "I am the guardian of heaven.
Arcum Deo.”                                                                Bow to God."

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“Nunquam”                                                                "Never"

Salus, honor, et virtus omipotenti Deo               Salvation, honor, and strength to Almighty God. 

Alleluia!                                                                         Alleluia!

 

 

A few considerations should be in mind while preparing the work.  The balance of the two choirs should be equal – the characters play equal roles in telling this story.  Secondly, the sonority and tone of the ensemble should be dramatic and crystalline.  Vibrato is no enemy, but be mindful of how clear the dissonant moments are and should be (more “Anglican” in that regard).  Lastly, the stylistic changes between the three sections should be defined: marcato, legato, and cantabile/triumphant

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Status: Unpremiered​