In "Ordo virtutum," the Devil is the only character who does not sing, but only speaks, symbolizing that music is antithetical to the Devil.
Composition History
Hildegard von Bingen's "Ordo virtutum" was likely composed for a special occasion, possibly the reconsecration of the church at Rupertsberg in 1151 or a ceremony for women entering holy orders.
Historical Context
The original cast of "Ordo virtutum" consisted of Hildegard's nuns, with Hildegard herself likely singing the part of Humility, Queen of the Virtues.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Hildegard von Bingen's "Ordo virtutum" is fundamentally a celebration of women and their voices, written for her community of nuns.
Interpretation
Seraphic Fire adopted a quasi-equalist approach to rhythm in this recording, treating pitches as mostly equal in length, and used drones, crotales, organum, and river stones as creative choices not indicated in the manuscript.
Composer Biography
Hildegard von Bingen, the composer of "Ordo virtutum," was a saint and polymath.
Recording & Production
This recording by Seraphic Fire is the world premiere of the complete version of "Ordo virtutum" on disc.
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