Nordic Chamber Choir - O Magnum Mysterium (M. Lauridsen)

I still remember getting to hear this fantastic choir at the Marktoberdorf Choral Competition. My jaw quite literally dropped listening to the amazing sound that was emanating from the Modeon stage. This is from their Lauridsen album. Just wait for that Low D. That's when you're supposed to close your eyes. Enjoy.

[@cassidypoerstel]

This is 6 minutes and 56 seconds of pure heaven. This is so gorgeous and beautiful.

[@KEISEMANN16]

Balm on the soul during Covid-19 times

[@townsvillian12]

I had never heard of this magical piece until relatively recently when I heard a choir perform it in the ancient church of St Eanswyth in Folkestone, England. I almost fell out of my pew and staggered home in a cloud of wonder. My goodness me, beauty such as this is rare indeed.

[@L1623VP]

town: I read somewhere that after this piece made its debut in a performance of Lux Aeterna by the Los Angeles Masters Chorale that someone said to composer, Morton Lauridsen, "People will be singing this five hundred years from now." Can you imagine getting a greater compliment as a composer?

[@craigtalbott731]

On the evening the composition had its world premiere 25 years ago, LAMC music director (the late) Paul Salamunovich explained to the audience in attendance prior to its performance, “Until now, Victoria’s 'O Magnum Mysterium' has been the most beautiful and well recognized setting of this text composed to date. I predict that will change after tonight.”

[@WigganNuG]

@@craigtalbott731 RIP to Paul Salamunovich! He was right, so right! This piece is absolute sonic perfection for the human voice. More importantly; it gives voice to the better angels of our collective human soul. If the God's were angry with humanity, and desperate to punish us or start over again; remind them that this piece was written by one of us, and sing it to them; It may be our only salvation. .. poop joke.

[@christofpsarros3384]

and to all Your people give Your heavenly Grace....

[@tonkajahari3010]

“The great mystery” is the translated Latin, I believe. This song is potently meaningful to me, because the man (my choir director) who introduced it to me lost his wife to cancer when she was only in her 40s.. and he was such a good teacher, that I’ve kept in touch for almost 20 yrs. The song is about the great mystery of the afterlife.. and I sent him this song after his wife died to hopefully give him comfort, as I was going through very hard times when he introduced the song to me and it’s still the most gorgeous piece of music ever written imo.

[@guidetoanything]

that last bass note. 10/10.

[@simonsmith6053]

Absolutely outstanding performance. Brings tears to the eyes, literally.

[@Musiqstr]

Sang this song as a part of my high school choir. I loved it so much, I learned every single part and now I don't know which part I originally sang lol. After 10 years (God, I'm old lol) this song still gives me chills. Love it

[@tiger2elite]

This was the first choral Christmas song that really struck me. I remember decorating the Christmas tree and hearing this come on the radio. I had to stop and listen. Few other pieces get to me like this one does. There is something to be said for listening to this stuff as apposed to rock or rap. It does something for the soul that those things simply cannot do.

[@Linz031487]

I first heard this song back in 2006 when my choir director at university decided to add it to our concert. I sang alto but helped the tenors a bit in places (we only had 2) and I fell in love with this arrangement. This recording is the best rendition of this piece I've ever heard. Beautiful!

[@katieyoung9842]

Gives me chills.

[@johnsmigo65]

Katie Young I like JohnRutter Gloria also.And old school Gregorian Chants

[@violacovers2739]

We are playing this in orchestra and the sung version helps me understand the song so much better. It is really beautiful

[@BizarreSuzanne]

LOVE the Harmony...

[@zephyrina2000]

This gives me peace and makes me cry at the same time. Bless Morten Lauridsen. I got to see SF area premiere of This Shining Night - documentary about him - and meet him (for 2nd time) just last night. *sigh*

[@prairiedogcreek]

I wish this recording were still available!

[@jenny9075]

I cry whenever I listen.

[@skipsdm]

Greatest piece of choral literature ever? 🙋🏻‍♂️

[@MidwestSingerDude]

The best chord (besides the last chord) is the "Tum" on "Viderent Dominum Natum" The 'B', 'F#', 'D' and 'F#" is absolutely GORRRRRRRGEOUS.

[@melissaschroeter161]

Pull me in.... make me see and feel the message ... I am to feel... that Is life........

[@bimmerboy87]

@aseretkavon ya no problem! if you like this recording you should check out the la master chorale's recording of this song on youtube. Its very different, but i feel its more true to lauridsen's intent. Lauridsen stated that every note he wrote in the works he composed for the la master chorale (including o magnum) were written to take advantage of the unique sound paul salamunovich (the master chorale's former conductor) is able to get out of his choirs.

[@como818]

It is Luther college I san there along time ago.

[@tonyrogers7770]

I play this every night as a lullaby to my grandson following the death of my son. This brings a peace to the end of the day before the dreams that bring torment.

[@scotthopkins9458]

I am so sorry for your loss.. I too have lost someone very close to me two weeks ago. And it was my girlfriend. The love of my life. At the age of 26

[@mezzomama3]

@@scotthopkins9458 Prayer for you both. I am so sorry. 2 Cor. 5:21, Mark 1:15

[@davidkariu]

Namaste 🙏🏽

[@jamessullivan7549]

When I heard this the first time, I was broken. The loss of my son just came flowing up. It is better now, no less beautiful.

[@RobMathMiller]

Praying for you. May God comfort your heart.

[@flchalice8339]

Everyone better respect the amount of energy this piece takes to do. My choir sang it and my lungs felt like bursting from all the sustaining and dynamics this song takes. Bravo for the director and choir for bringing this piece to another level.

[@joannemcgrath5045]

Yes!❤

[@milkgaming3029]

Anyone else getting more or less constant goosebumps throughout this?

[@johnroberts8413]

+Ross Goold Buckets of tears.

[@sassmafrass]

@John Roberts: Absolutely. Exactly.

[@maryalexander8018]

Me, definitely. Every time. And I love this recording and tend to play it over and over once i get started. I have sung soprano in this

[@specialenvy24]

It makes me realise why we are human. Enough of the materialistic crud that goes on...this stuff is what matters and transcends every day life.

[@martinpig7811]

This was the last piece my mother sang in her final concert, suffering from Altzeimers She died a few years later, having lived a full and beautiful life, including constant music I chose it to open her memorial service Wonderful

[@GazpachoFlannery]

I can't describe how this piece makes me feel. If I had one chance to show someone that humanity wasn't all bad, that there could be good things we make, I would use this piece. It's the most beautiful sounding song in the world. This is what good music is. This is art.

[@zoopyjoobles]

Even if I know I shall never change the masses, never transform anything permanent, all I ask is that the good things also have their place, their refuge. Richard Wagner

[@scriptmusiconline]

Mack Hintze have you listened Durufle's Tantum Ergo? I think that one is also a great Masterpiece and a beautiful sounding song for sure.

[@cristinalopezgevers5284]

This creation gives sense to life. Harmonic beauty gives hope for a better humanity

[@billblack5750]

Brilliant description of.most beutiful sound

[@HeavenlyLights]

Beautifully expressed💞

[@sarahsays7420]

I sang this years ago as an alto 2. It's is such a beautiful song and when you experience singing it with all the other voices around you, it creates an energy like I can't even describe. Beautiful performance

[@sarakendrick3366]

Been there, done that. Truly amazing. And the alto is the most fun part to sing (in this alto's opinion...)

[@msukunda]

Sara Kendrick tenor 1 is pretty nuts too

[@sargothi]

Agreed. I sang tenor in this and it's quite an amazing feeling that can't be put into words.

[@johnfrank1774]

I never liked being a Soprano, but I've grown to accept it as it is the Highest

[@bethsharp4276]

My choir sang this two years ago. I'm a second alto too. The only thing is that it wasn't my choir two years ago so I didn't get to perform it. I really wish I had because it absolutely gorgeous and it would be an awesome experience to be a part of it.

[@abigaildevoe]

I just got the sheet music for this at chamber singers rehearsal last night, I was curious about what it would sound like so I looked it up and found myself here. This is quite literally the most beautiful piece I've heard in my entire life. I'm so lucky to have the opportunity to perform this masterpiece.

[@keithwilks4015]

+Abby Wilson We are a lucky, fortunate ...few :)

[@mstralala75]

I think it must be life changing to sing such beauty!

[@joannaa5026]

Wait until you hear “Home Is” performed by VOCES8. I confirm it is the most beautiful song in existence

[@debbiepentland8181]

I've just heard it on classic fm. Gorgeous spine tingling. 🥀🥀

[@NorthToSouthChannel]

This song translates into the story of the birth of Christ... when I listen to this, it's not the generic "Christmas story" feeling... it's the feeling that something of an unfathomable greatness has happened, and yet, I'm surrounded by peace and overwhelming joy... Brings tears to my eyes every single time hear it.

[@Martin-nl7zr]

Thank you, that’s how it makes me feel.

[@paullewis3771]

Me too

[@paullewis3771]

I grew up choral and he's my favorite

[@SalemMusicNews]

YES! Spot on!

[@NorthToSouthChannel]

I posted this comment 11 years ago, when I was only 18, and I still feel exactly the same way.

[@videoket]

This music is holy. (Whether we are religious or not, we can all agree that this song transcends SOMETHING!) Having this come on my playlist at a quiet moment was so beautiful.

[@michaelodonnell6078]

Yes, am confident this music is a gift from heaven. I have just heard it today for the first time and I was so moved that I suddenly realised I had tears streaming out of my eyes at the sublime magic of what I was listening to….how I have not heard it before I can’t say but I feel good that I can enjoy it from now on and will encourage people to listen to this if they’ve not had the experience. Powerful and quite spiritual I’d say.

[@TealStarSusan]

⁠@@michaelodonnell6078It is indeed a gift from heaven! I sang this as a soprano 1 in my choir in Scotland many years ago. Being immersed in the sound and being part of that sound is definitely even more..emotional, transcendent, beautiful…words fail me. And I’m sure you understand! This just is heaven! ❤

[@Marilyn4Bach]

I am basically an atheist, but this music is spiritual for anyone.

[@seadog365]

This has seriously got to be one of the best pieces of choral music ever written. Simply stunning.

[@garnettlivingston3739]

This is the best recording i have heard of this piece. The intonation and balance is incredible. Phrasing and dynamics so perfect. Congratulations

[@L1623VP]

Totally agree. In lesser hands, this fine piece can become lethargic and muddy. These singers felt this in their souls and the precision and energy come through in every note.

[@simtaylor4203]

Take a listen to Polyphony’s version. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed

[@miketausig4205]

Absolutely. I have yet to hear a better version. Especially that G#.

[@miketausig4205]

And it definitely helped that Lauridsen himself was at the piano for this recording.

[@81janbird]

An exquisite piece, and quite the most wonderful choral singing I've ever heard. On one level you can sense the many, many hours of painstaking composition and then rehearsal. On another, the music is angelic, and the voices seem to belong not to individuals, but to one source which splits like light through a prism before becoming whole again. Miraculous.

[@EternalExodus]

accurate. this transcends space and time. lauridsen tapped into something divine here.

[@81janbird]

@@EternalExodus He did indeed.

[@barbarabeavis825]

Haunting beautiful out of this world .

[@MusicForMedia]

The first time I ever heard this was at a live concert and I literally had tears of joy running down my cheek by the end. I simply could not comprehend the sheer beauty of the sound I was experiencing.

[@anthonyrispo1229]

I love seeing this. I share that feeling.

[@kacver]

Amen! The first time I heard this song I was so entranced, but couldn’t comprehend the lyrics. Then I found it and have been crying every time I listen/sing this song ever since. The sound and the meaning of the music is so breathtaking beautiful to be unmoved!😭🥰

[@charleslavers4563]

Amen!

[@hollychartier2643]

Good description of hearing this the first time. My first time was the prelude music played at my daughter's wedding. I sobbed my eyes out.

[@cameronmetz9933]

I cry every time. I can’t recall anything more beautiful that I’ve listened to in my life.

[@timowalker24]

i had the EXTREME pleasure of hearing my son's high school choir sing this one song in the in the Sistene Chapel in Rome in 2001. enough said as my eyes were so full of tears that i could not see the chapel with all of it's glorious Michelanglo art work...

[@tatianacueto6815]

tim walker what an amazing honor! That must have been truly awe inspiring.

[@renzo6490]

O magnum mysterium Et admirabile sacramentum Ut animalia viderent Dominum natum Jacentem in praesepio! Beata Virgo, cujus viscera Meruerunt portare Dominum Christum Alleluia O great mystery, and wonderful sacrament, that animals should see the newborn Lord, lying in a manger! Blessed is the virgin whose womb was worthy to bear the Lord, Jesus Christ. Alleluia!

[@Bouncing_Bub]

Who knew a song I had to listen to for homework would be good

[@miketausig4205]

Your teacher, most likely😉

[@eltonprince6257]

@@miketausig4205 stole the words right outta my mouth.

[@specialenvy24]

3.2million views and about one million of them are mine!

[@MrKain1000]

I just heard Lauridsen talk about this piece last night at the PSU Choir concert in Portland. He mentioned the pain and suffering he went through writing it...Saying that it kept him up weeks at a time. There's only one accidental in the whole piece, and it's given to the altos. It represents Mary's suffering. Lauridsen is a genius. How he can make one note so powerful in a sea of beauty is astounding.

[@BenjaminGessel]

😊😊😊😊😊😭😭😭😊😊😊😊👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@dahawk8574]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/nZqYYqyKfrZ9jsU

[@EdwardPrah]

Luke 2:34-35 34 And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed 35 (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.” I can see what brings me to tears when I hear this song now... May the Lord Jesus redeem Israel and the Church, His Bride.

[@michaelmcgowan6703]

That is an amazing story which will enhance how I hear forever . An old , dying musician who is reduced to his knees at every listening .... the Great Mystery of the Human Experience 🙏

[@dustyspeakers]

Whats an accidental?

[@ABoyNamedJoe]

Beautiful. I am transported to the heavens. Glory to God.

[@trp8155]

Something cool that I have heard: This entire piece contains no accidentals except two; only the two G-sharps on the word "virgo," which means "virgin." Mary was pure and was chosen to bring Christ into the world, yet she suffered great pain because of it. Aside from the physical pain of childbirth, she had to witness her Son's death and suffering on the cross, which caused her unimaginable pain. Lauridsen said he wanted to highlight this pain in the tension that lies between the Alto's G-Sharp and the Soprano's A. Pretty cool musical concept.

[@amberbella13]

And those accidentals create the two most beautiful moments in the piece. It's masterful.

[@elli4210]

Singing that G# was one of my favourite parts of the piece.

[@MN-lo3xv]

The accidentals were my conductor's favorite part of the piece. Mine too, probably!

[@tatianacueto6815]

I never knew this wow! Thank you for sharing!

[@PDPickering]

It's too bad this is all a myth. Virgins don't get pregnant. There are god-man myths all over the world, and the English-speaking world tends to like the Jesus story to which you refer above.

[@freelanceangel8962]

You don't have to be Christian to love the music. It's truly beautiful!

[@keithpeterson5127]

Christian's created such wonderful music out of their love of God in the Christ.

[@austinhernandez2716]

@@keithpeterson5127 your point? Christians also called jazz and rock and roll the devil's work

[@keithpeterson5127]

@@austinhernandez2716 Extreme right wing/fundamentalist Christians mostly but they don't like anything that is not based on morality. Don't judge all Christians equally.

[@EternalExodus]

I'm the furthest thing from a christian, and I think this is the most beautiful piece of choral music ever written.

[@cecik5578]

@@EternalExodus creatures can’t help but be drawn to their Creator…❤

[@boltonwandererskings]

I want this version played at my funeral as my coffin is carried into the church. I have performed it twice and have listened to it over and over again and it gets better and more beautiful every time

[@markir1947]

I am dedicating this beautiful arrangement to our only son Chris who we lost this summer in a climbing accident.

[@markir1947]

+A seeker Thank you. I appreciate your kindness.

[@MsBlynn]

+mark kiryluk I am so sorry..

[@ImJustJuno]

It's not yours to dedicate. (Also sorry about your son)

[@markir1947]

+Becky Michaca Thank you .

[@markir1947]

+Juno What does that mean???

[@RosaGilbertHitchcock]

If God said, "You can listen to one piece of music for the rest of your life, what'll it be?" This.

[@KelliTheOperaGeek]

Or Spem in Alium. Then I'm set

[@jeffreygreiner704]

or simple song from mass

[@richardmarriott3109]

Difficult choice. I also rate 'Lo The Full Final Sacrifice' by Gerald Finzi.

[@katarzynagrzywocz1923]

Ja też tak myślę!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@VITOLLFOTOGRAFIA]

Or O Magnum Misterium by Victoria

[@carloskeith2337]

Goose bumps all over from this song. The feeling can't be described. Brings me to tears each time I hear it.

[@L1623VP]

Even as poor as this audio recording is, you can still tell how absolutely fantastic this choir is. This is easily the finest performance of this piece I've ever heard. The danger with this beautiful, languid piece in the hands of a lesser group is for it to get lethargic and muddy, but this performance remains precise and totally energized from beginning to end, from pianissimo to fortissimo. These singers felt this in their souls and every bit of it comes through in the performance. Bravo.

[@leahd5490]

As an Alto II, singing "Virgo" is my favorite favorite favorite part! It's so haunting and dissonant and so beautiful as it builds into the crescendo and it gives me shivers! (Dat low D tho)

[@MademoiselleCrafty]

+Leah Duff as a Soprano I, I can guarantee that hearing the altos sing that part gives me the chills. Favorite part of the song!

[@WinterSPF15]

+Leah Duff f I know exactly what you mean! I got to sing this in highscool, and it was everyone's favorite part, including my own. Chills every single time.

[@trp8155]

+Leah Duff Something cool that I have heard: This entire piece contains no accidentals except two; only the two G-sharps on the word "virgo," which means virgin. Mary was pure and was chosen to bring Christ into the world, yet she suffered great pain because of it. Aside from the physical pain of childbirth, she had to witness her Son's death and suffering on the cross, which caused her unimaginable pain. Lauridsen said he wanted to highlight this pain in the tension that lies between the Alto's G-Sharp and the Soprano's A. Pretty cool musical concept.

[@kaleyahhyuga999]

Yes, I'm an Alto 2 as well so I understand how low the most of the notes on this song can be. But, this song is so good!!! :3

[@hawrnball]

We sang this my senior year in choir, and that was always my favorite part. It still gives me chills.

[@chipmunkjohn]

This has got to be some of the most heavenly music known to man.

[@adryan8458]

lmao who's here from that one blogger on tumblr

[@jaydenrise7186]

+Chloe Price There are many bloggers on tumblr

[@adryan8458]

that one blogger that apparently is a siren*

[@jaydenrise7186]

Otay. Thank you

[@lionsmaine1238]

+Chloe Price What'd they post

[@bluebell2667]

yuppp

[@Savanners]

It's as if God himself wrote this. The beauty. Whenever listening, calm and acceptance washes over me. My mind clears. I feel actual angels are singing this. Also, this is merely a minute piece of the joy, and beauty of God's love that us humans can comprehend.

[@HeavenlyLights]

Yes🙏🏻😇💞

[@WigganNuG]

Fax.

[@hollychartier2643]

I am heartbroken to hear that you are experencing this glory in a time of such horrific loss. But then,,,I know what this music is to me, and I rejoice that you have allowed your heart to honor the love between a parent and child. Bless you.

[@joanharris6340]

I can't find the right words! Nordic Chamber Choir are magnificent. Lauridsen's music takes my breath away and brings tears to my eyes.😪

[@kristymichel9459]

I've been looking for a version like this for so long. this song brings me too tears every time

[@edielight1290]

I’m like Pavlov’s dog, I start crying every time I hear this recording. Words can’t describe how I feel about this piece.

[@nivsterperson5546]

Here from Facebook post: Mom and daughter singing in bathroom.

[@brianlovesmc]

this isnt the song they sang

[@nivsterperson5546]

Brian Hernandez Yes it is 😂

[@mindaurra1525]

They actually sang O magnum mysterium composed by Tomas Luis De Victoria. It is different.

[@crowlight]

Haha, same, except I found it on Tumblr

[@kianabrod]

Nivster Person bless you for giving me the composer

[@mrjmay07]

This is one of the most gorgeous chorale pieces ever written. Beautiful job Morton on capturing the beauty of life and showing us just how precious every second is.

[@lawrencewhyte1554]

I want to dedicate this to my paternal great grandparents, all though I never met you. You are the reason I am here. Thank you for your dedication during difficult times in the past, may you be rest in eternal peace.

[@misterhowe7999]

This choir's sound is like glass. I love how they maintain brightness in their tone - so many choirs focus so much on resonance that they sing in the back of the throat. This is a welcome change from that approach. The brightness really helps the dissonance to shine through. I also love how they don't seem rushed.

[@paulelowe]

Music straight from heaven

[@gemmag.2988]

Agreed.

[@oldschooldrumcorps]

O magnum mysterium et admirabile sacramentum, ut animalia viderent Dominum natum, jacentem in præsepio. Beata virgo, cujus viscera meruerunt portare Dominum Christum, Alleluia! Translation: O great mystery and wondrous sacrament, that animals should see the newborn Lord lying in their manger. Blessed is the Virgin whose womb was worthy to bear the Lord Jesus Christ. Alleluia!

[@iphigeneiamoederpoes8742]

thanks for the lyrics

[@mbmaccin555555]

Even though this song is a happy song, I want this played at my funeral.

[@Mattchudon]

I sung this piece as tenor 1 a few years ago with my college's concert choir. I might be biased, but the tenor 1s have the most awesome and most chilling part in this piece. It was hard for me to hold my bearings and not burst into tears during that soaring passage at around 4:39. This is a divine work of art that will forever be in my soul.

[@SkiDaBird]

I sang multiple Soprano and Bass parts and I agree, the Tenors have the best lines.

[@kateannvukovich6928]

Respectfully, I disagree--the alto II part is truly spectacular. :) honestly, though--I remember talking about singing this with other members of my choir, and we all honestly thought our own lines were the best! Which was not usually the case. :p

[@westindianson00]

This song moves my soul whenever I hear it. I too sang tenor and I always cried when signing this. Wonderful song.

[@alicesedgwick7825]

Naaah I was an alto and we have the gorgeous g sharp on 'virgo', we bragged about that for months :')

[@nantalagafirma3334]

Alice Sedgwick Alice your too right. As an alto i also bragged about our parts... :-)

[@grandmawatermelon]

Very Beautiful! I hear God in this song. The fact that humans can see, hear, and understand beauty proves that there is something different and remarkable about them. Normal animals cannot do that.

[@erismurphy4206]

My choir sang this at Carnegie Hall last year. It is absolutely beautiful and brings me to tears every time I hear it. I love this song so much.

[@cosmicathesongstress7466]

Marie Willet You also went!? The choir I sang with went too! But of course I was excluded because of my anxiety... Nice.

[@williammunson5432]

Lauridsen makes me feel things I didn't know I could feel.

[@johnclauser7392]

Angels from heaven singing...... So beautiful

[@yagizkart1]

Not a Christian (or religious even), but I can say with whole my heart that Europan Christianity, inspired by the Greco-Roman choral tradition, managed to merge art and religion together in such a way that it produced one of the most magnificent, epic and beautifull vocal concepts in the world. Biblical inspired music is a world unto itself.

[@foxhillman]

truly the most beautiful rendition of the song which facilitated my re-conversion to Catholicism.

[@drcardinalli]

So glad you’re home, friend❣️

[@charlotteramez9983]

This is clearly angel's voices. I sang this song once with the chamber choir of the High school of music in Nantes, France. It's probably, with Allegri's "Miserer Mei Deus", one the most beautiful music ever written.

[@peterputtock6649]

Listening to this has reminded me of the pure joy, pain and love that I felt in singing this. Luckily, I have had tthe chance to sing it a number of times, and I will cherish every rendition. Us tenors do get wonderful lines!

[@marietaylor8144]

We are singing this for Midnight Mass. I love the lyrics and the flow of the music. How wonderful that the animals in the stable were the first to behold the Baby Jesus. What a beautiful presentation of O Magnum Mysterium.

[@tinotcg5815]

This song reminds me that there is still beauty in this world...

[@hepzebahsu]

O magnum mysterium et admirabile sacramentum ut animalia viderent Dominum natum jacentem in praesepio. Natum vidimus et choros Angelorum collaudantes Dominum. Alleluia. Quem vidistis, pastores, dicite, annuntiate nobis, quis apparuit? Natum vidimus et choros angelorum collaudantes Dominum, Alleluia. O great mystery and wonderful sacrament that even the animals saw the new-born Lord lying in a manger. We saw the new-born, and a chorus of angels praising the Lord. Alleluia. Whom did you see, shepherds, say, Tell us, who appeared? We saw the new-born, and choruses of angels praising the Lord. Alleluia.

[@wellnessgirl2806]

Thanks so much for posting the translation.

[@timothyspriggs4046]

Sunny Sattva O great mystery,and wonderful sacrament,that animals should see the new-born Lord, lying in a manger! Blessed is the Virgin whose womb was worthy to bear Christ the Lord. Alleluia!

[@elphillips1066]

Thank you!!!!

[@brianbaumgarn5795]

With this I had to go back to my latin in high school, over fifty years ago and work on the translation. It just became more amazing then, you know?

[@JoelByrd1]

Not quite the words used in this version, in case anyone is following along and confused. O magnum mysterium, Et admirabile sacramentum, Ut animalia viderent Dominum natum, Jacentem in praesepio! Beata Virgo, cujus viscera Meruerunt portare Dominum Christum. Alleluia.

[@tygerstar35]

Morten Lauriden....Heaven's composer-in-residence ....

[@leahd5490]

+Linda Love Him and Eric Whitacre!

[@TheChoralist]

Moses hogan conducting the choir

[@JoeCambo]

This song gives me LIFE

[@muziquebox]

Joe Cambo, me too!!!! LOL

[@theoneeyedfool]

There are lifetimes upon lifetimes upon lifetimes worth of content here on KZbin. The best 6 minutes and 56 seconds of it all are right here.

[@drcardinalli]

What you said.

[@PredatoriaMoon]

This piece should be the end of every epic battle, to mark the beginning of a new era away from the dark times. This is beautiful.

[@mjstockton6869]

Yours is a very thoughtful interpretation. It is one of my short list favorites.

[@funkuu7954]

Let's go one step more.... Lets play this before any needless battle and this should change the violent outcome to a peaceful resolve. No needless bloodshed. Just my wishful thinking for supporting all our brothers and sisters in this wonderful world. Peace always.

[@kydetoad]

Even as dark times follow us into further battles this music is balm for the soul . The soul that persists with a fierce patience and towards a crescendo of enlightenment .

[@memmori4085]

Sacred and Beautiful...may I be found worthy to die a good and holy death to be greeted in Heaven with such awesome sound! Thank you for this. Deo Gratias+ God bless your voices forever+

[@Jbm0230]

I hope my brother is hearing this and more in heaven. Rest In Peace 10-15-12.

[@debbiebrett6689]

At 11.30 last night, my oldest guinea pig, Percy, passed away on my lap while I gently stroked him. This beautiful music just happened to be playing on the radio as he took his last breaths. Whether it be human, cat, dog, guinea pig, mouse ........ every death of one who has been close to you is a an emotional happening.

[@ShelaghBluebell]

This is the most beautiful version of this piece I have heard so far. The balance, the pacing, the feeling--all there in such a deeply moving way. Thanks to all who made this version availalble.

[@elysecrane6519]

This is so damn beautiful.. " sobs "

[@a_literal_brick]

A perfect musical manifestation of the glory of Christ

[@stephenweigel]

I love the sound this choir generates. So resonant, big, and unified. It's magic, and I can't get enough of this recording.

[@01Rising]

This is the most extraordinary piece of music I've heard--ever! I can't believe I had to wait 42 years for the Universe to reveal this to me...reminds me of when I heard Arvo Part's music for the first time :) such perfect pitch and vibration. Also reminds me of the choral music they used in the first Lord of the Flies movie--especially Simon's death scene where he floats off into the Ether--does anyone know what piece that was?

[@jimtrear9409]

O great mystery, and wonderful sacrament, that animals should see the newborn Lord, lying in a manger! Blessed is the virgin whose womb was worthy to bear the Lord, Jesus Christ. Alleluia!

[@KommisarKrak]

I sang this as a bass 2, and it remains my favorite choir song I've ever sung. I'm not an emotional person, but something about this song touches me in a way I cannot describe. Being the bass under everything, making the warm resonance is simply phenomenal. This and O Vos Omnes make me teary eyed. And bravo to Scandinavia for such a beautiful rendition of this piece.

[@benjim8373]

I'm a Muslim I don't understand what they're singing about but this music always attracts me, very deep and peaceful I always listen to it to meet myself.....goosebumps at 6:43

[@Victor-sh1ez]

Hello - They are singing about the one divine God that all peoples of all faiths and those who believe those who do not believe is so loved beyond all human comprehension - the one God who is so magnificent and so mysterious and who loves all of us peoples on Earth unconditionally.

[@mateojames3231]

It’s about the Birth of Christ and how the animals and people should come and see the child and the virgin mother in the manger.

[@ZinkZoodles]

BEN JIM same! I’m a Muslim but I sing this in choir (non-religious choir) and just the voices are so amazing!

[@drcardinalli]

Hi friends! Actually, it seems they are singing about something even more amazing and specific. This piece expresses awe at the incomprehensible mystery that the all-powerful God should humble Himself so enormously in two ways: one, to be born as a little child, in our world so poor that even animals may look upon Him, and two, to come to us similarly in the Sacrament of His Body and Blood, even tinier, more vulnerable and humble than a child. Especially if you're Muslim, you might not be familiar with these Catholic beliefs as the reason we sing about our minds being blown! The sad thing is, lots of Catholics aren't familiar with them either, or have somehow become indifferent. Thank God for art like this to remind us! 💘 PS. Here's some info, or look up Real Presence and Eucharistic Miracles on your own: kzbin.info/www/bejne/foqmkHukbdF2fZI kzbin.info/www/bejne/fnrLZpuIocenqrc

[@craigtalbott731]

O great mystery, and wonderful sacrament, that animals should see the newborn Lord, lying in a manger! Blessed is the virgin whose womb was worthy to bear the Lord, Jesus Christ. Alleluia!

[@JeffL57]

The 30+ individuals who voted this exquisitely gorgeous song a thumbs down need to permanently lose access to youtube. Who could possibly not appreciate the amazing sonorities that this amazing choir is able to achieve throughout this stellar performance? Thank you for posting this to YT. It should be required listening to any person who needs a relaxing 7 minutes to sit back and bathe in the sheer beauty of his work!

[@funkypants7297]

Hopefully they were misclicks.

[@MrPoog]

This and the King's College recording are simply incredible. However, if this chamber choir was singing in a cathedral as well, there would be no comparison. This is the very, very best, by a very large margin. Absolutely gorgeous.

[@kirkrelf1402]

How ironic that I sought out this song after a very troubling couple of days on the anniversary of my father's passing. This song has always brought me such peace. We used to sing this in competition in high school and college. I still come back to it. My grandmother was indigenous Norwegian. So meaningful to find the Nordic choir singing this. A song from a mother on the passing of her son.

[@attacsloth]

To me, this is one of the most divine songs written.

[@randyjsing]

At about 4:09...Lord have mercy! Christ have mercy! It cuts to the bone! Thank you Soprano I's! The overtones, followed by the low D2's. Suddenly there is a realization that some of us concealed. Suddenly there is hope for all who will believe for all mankind!! It is at that moment that the birth of our Savior becomes a beautiful reality by way of song! Response? Alleluia! Again and again...Alleluia!!

[@charletieplaatjies2105]

🙏

[@RoneLuvSolitude]

I sang this song as part of the Cape Town Youth Choir in 2009. My soul transcends every time I hear this song, it is so beautiful and reverent and proof that our God is a true and living God of music, love, peace and grace.

[@zandgall1837]

Well said.

[@coolprogaming538]

Hope you did it at Bishops or St Georges Cathedral with those heavenly acoustics.

[@NeliaHenning]

Roné Herbst Was daar ooit 'n opname gemaak van julle. Sal dit verskriklik graag wil hoor.

[@johannkuhne1501]

Nelia Henning Sang this at the Potchefstroom University Choir in 2003-2004. One of the most haunting ly beautiful pieces that will forever be with me.

[@RoneLuvSolitude]

Nelia, so jammer, ek sien nou eers hierdie boodskap! Ek glo nie daar was 'n opname gemaak nie. Die koor het tog wel 'n CD van Rachmaninoff se Vespers gemaak in Afrikaans wat stunning was. Mnr Leon Starker sal kopiee daarvan he**

[@kornstar0486]

Though He does exist, this music makes you know and feel that His presence is always there. There is a one true God

[@edwardbak4459]

This is incredible. The balance, the ensemble, the atmosphere of wonderment and reverence, the hushed awe. It seems like there is no other way. This must be how angels sound.

[@rodrigoantoniosilva7]

This is the reconciliation of humanity with God! 🙏🏼

[@ThatFunnyActress]

I close my eyes, listen, and I swear I am in a place as close to heaven as poets describe. My heart pulls from my chest in a yearning to return to where it belongs, but reclines again with newborn peace and hope that sounds like this will last for all eternity.

[@trentsmith5184]

Pure HEAVEN. Love this piece, and this performance so much! On an unrelated note, "Marktoberdorf" sounds like what you call your drunk friend Mark when he does something stupid.