Anton Bruckner: Ave Maria (TTBB)

This is the third of three settings by Anton Bruckner of the Ave Maria. Written in 1882 in Vienna, it was scored for solo voice and organ, and owes its origin and extraordinary two-octave vocal range to Bruckner's infatuation with a young woman who commanded an excellent contralto voice. This arrangement for men's chorus (TTBB) distributes the melody among all four voices, with supporting harmonies transcribed from the organ accompaniment. The original key and the wide dynamic range of the original setting have been preserved; only a seven bar organ interlude occurring before 'Sancta Maria' has been omitted. This piece may be performed a cappella or accompanied by organ, as Bruckner originally intended.

This is a beautiful and moving piece for TTBB with optional Organ Accompaniment, as arranged by Bruce Trinkley.