Feast of the Assumption: Ave Maris Stella, Marcel Dupré

Blessed be Her Glorious Assumption! 

On this feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, I wish to share the hymn from Second Vespers ‘Ave Maris Stella.’ This hymn dates back to the 11th century and is of unknown origin, although it is often attributed to St Bernard. It is, however, a much later rendering that I write of here, that of Marcel Dupre.

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Gregorian Chant: Music of Heaven on Earth

As a boy of 12, I remember our protestant minister commenting on the playing of my friend who was practicing the trumpet. ‘That is heavenly music’ he said with a wide grin. My friend’s satisfaction with the complement was shattered as the elderly man continued ‘it’s of no earthly use!’ What seemed like a remark made in jest, shattered my poor companion – once he had fully realised what it meant, that is.

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