Music Appreciation 3e Kamien
	Online Learning Center

Alleluia: Vidimus Stellam
(We Have Seen His Star)

Vocal soloist and choir

CD 1, Tracks 43-45

This example of Gregorian chant is made up of two contrasting parts followed by a return of the first at the end of the work. Consequently, this chant may be described as an example of ABA form. As outlined below, the first section begins with an alternation between the solost and choir in unison (monophonic). Note the extended phrase on the last syllable of "Alleluia," (ia). This ornamental treatment of a single syllable sung to a series of notes is known as a "melisma," an important feature of Gregorian chant. Also significant is the lack of any precise system of measured rhythm. Notice that each note is represented by a solid notehead rather than a note with any specific value. (The red-line graph in the B section has been included to draw attention to an early awareness of the structural importance of the tonic (D), dominant (A) relationship--a relationship that grows stronger as the history of music unfolds.) Glancing through the complete notation in Kamien (p. 67) you will notice that the dominant (A) is the highest note, i.e., the climactic note, of the selection.

Part A

Part B

Part A

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