What Makes ‘Benedictus’ so Haunting? Sir Karl Jenkins | Explained | Classic FM Meets

We asked Sir Karl Jenkins to pick apart the score for this stunning movement, and explain what makes it so haunting - with particular focus on that cello solo.
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[@timothywilliams1359]

The first time I heard this piece, on the car radio, I had to pull off the highway. My eyes were swimming.... I could not see. It took a while to recover. Amazing music.

[@susansapp6136]

I'm always blessed to know that men can be moved so much by a piece of music that they are willing to shed tears by the actual beauty of the music alone. It happened to my brother once and the memory will always be (to me) a JFK moment ... buried in my brain forever.

[@philellis1961]

Bone chilling is all I say to explain Benedictus

[@klauswagner1776]

Eines der ergreifendsten Musikstücke, die ich kenne. Ich könnte jedesmal die Tränen laufen lassen. Tank you so much Sir Jenkins❤

[@TheNicolevalent]

I weep every time I hear this played. It’s that beautiful

[@annecorr]

me too

[@blightyA]

As well-even the conductor & some musicians in the Orchestra Antonio Vivaldi version had tears

[@fastasfox]

Yes it hits the soul.....you find yourself drifting off to it.....right up until the load bit where the kettle drums cymbals etc make you jump....but in a wonderful way.

[@user-ub4pl6tz2e]

Totally agree Check out the space version Proper in crying Has to be the 21 century master piece classic music 🎵 Made for leaving the world 🌍 Karl composer done it Simple notes Are the in best Just go back century's ago 17 18 century All classic and simple Have a nice life Talit

[@petraveres-kovacs1542]

I was lucky enough to be a soprano of a Hungarian choir and performed Benedictus in 2014 at the Carnegie Hall conducted by Karl Jenkins. He is a wonderful person and the music he created is out of this world. I’ll never forget the feeling of hundreds of people singing Benedictus together at Carnegie Hall. I guess this is what Heaven feels like. ❤️

[@sylviasydney2000]

❤❤❤

[@Maya7281]

exactly,his music is godly,like the one often mentioned in near-death experiences here on KZbin

[@barrycolebrook252]

I have lots of Karl’s cds. This is the first time I’ve heard him in an interview. This man is so humble considering all the wonder music he has created. May his works keep going. 🙂

[@roberterickson2239]

I have come to believe that the simpler pieces of music resonate much deeper with more people than the more complex and demanding works. The first time I heard this, I was awestruck. I've now heard it as an orchestral, choral, and solo presentation. The simple beauty of is is always there. Thank you, Sir Karl Jenkins for a masterpiece.

[@will903]

Humble people always produce the most magical things. And this is truly one of the most magical pieces of music ever composed. He captures the essences of war, hope, and peace masterfully. No one else need bother try to do so. Perfection has been achieved in The Armed Man, especially Benedictus.

[@MrSadsack56]

agreed but i have a very huge soft spot for peer gynts Ase`s death and morning. both similar and so emotional..

[@wooskru]

Check my 9 cellos arrangement of this Benedictus here on KZbin. Thanks!

[@Wanderful1]

He doesn't realise how brilliant he is!

[@terryterry9122]

Its one of the most beautyful piece of music ever ben written.Thank you Karl Jenkins .

[@wooskru]

Check my 9 cellos arrangement of this Benedictus here on KZbin. Thanks!

[@will903]

I agree. And he speaks about it as someone explaining he's just made a bowl of popcorn. And yet it is one of the most beautiful things ever created. If you could package everything beautiful and tragic about the world and deliver it as sound, this is it.

[@user-ub4pl6tz2e]

Totally agree 21 century master piece classic music 🎶 KARL has given the world 🌎 I didn't think I would hear a another master piece classic today Tim's Excellent, Karl Thank you for your peace In my deep sleep Sad I have to wake up again, pure heaven Talit ... Hertfordshire

[@lesleyelalami2562]

The lower notes for me express the tragedy of life on this seemingly Godforsaken plane. The higher notes express the hope/optimism in man's heart/soul. it's the juxtaposition of the two that does it for me... It's like a conversation between the two states of being coming to agreement. Absolutely brilliant and so inspirational and expressive. Delightful.

[@alanlawrence2954]

Composers are like artists or filmmakers... They never really know when they've produced a masterpiece... But their audience recognise it at once.

[@thewatchmen4920]

This one goes directly to the ❤😢

[@madeleine7411]

I did not understand a word, yet I was entranced to see the wonderful man explain Benedictus, which sends me to a magical place. Thank you, Mr. Karl Jenkins, so very much.

[@stephencross1909]

The first time I heard this I was at the royal Albert hall I was moved to tears the first time I cried in public in over 40 years

[@matzek.9119]

What a contemporary Composer! Thank you Sir Karl Jenkins. All the best for your work and life!

[@thewatchmen4920]

You talk as though it's just music. It isn't. It's a formula for healings what or when ever who ever for any reason. In any language for the 🌏🌎🌍 to understand and enjoy. THANK you sir. Again thank you sir. ❤️ 💗 💓🇬🇧 🇺🇸 ✔️

[@minavanderleest9493]

I listen to this piece fairly regularly. The video is set to pictures of the stars. It overwhelms me.

[@jimmyb1356]

I wish my father could be alive to hear this beautiful song.

[@meralkaraali6952]

The most beautiful piece of music has been ccomposed thank you Mr. Jenkins.

[@jorgevillavicencio2955]

Cello was a perfect choice. the range, depth and resonance is just unique.

[@johnpbh]

The whole Mass is such a wonderful piece of music and I can think of no higher compliment than to say that that I rate it alongside Vaughn Williams and Mahler.

[@kiltlvr]

My brother “discovered” the Benedictus in the few months before his death, so, of course, I think of him now whenever I hear it. It helped him through his suffering.

[@MelvilleG]

There's a magical feeling about every piece by Karl Jenkins. "The song of Spirit", "Adiemus" and many others are not only worthy to be a main theme for some major Hollywood movie - they deserve a movie built around their theme.

[@kimberlygould5659]

Yes!!!

[@gathsfamily2866]

From your words to God's ears !!! We definitely could use something like this !!!

[@tvnsi8556]

Great pleasure to live at the same time and listen such classic composer. His music and live voice

[@sharonmullins1957]

Found this on 2 cellos. It makes me cry, hauntingly beautiful, yet hopeful. Thank you Sir Jenkins.

[@paullewis2413]

The secret of Benedictus is in its simplicity, one of the most glorious melodies ever written. 😊

[@Bongo239]

“Its a simple tune”. The best tunes always are, but this one is up there as the most beautiful piece of music ever in my opinion.

[@gisellegrape4953]

I couldn’t agree with you more.🙏

[@user-ub4pl6tz2e]

Totally agree Master piece classic music 21 century master piece Always one classic music and Karl done and achieve rewards Has to be the 21 century master piece Keep falling asleep Sad to wake up again am in heaven Talit

[@rocketjack4865]

Hauser from 2cellos playing this is so beautiful.

[@donnagilligan2905]

Thank you for composing such a magnificent piece of music so moving and holy.

[@micheleeckford5665]

So beautiful & moving. It says everything.

[@robertburke5786]

I joined a choir to sing Christmas music. Then I learned we would also sing with a symphony orchestra. The first rehearsal of Benedictus with them was an experience of longing and sadness and I thoght what a sad lonely meloddy. But with the tympani exclamation I felt completely mentally and spiritually in awe. The conception, the birth of a savior of humanity with a thunderclap, we sing of joy and gratitude. Then the quietness. He is now in this terrifying, wondrous world. The Message is yet to be given, and the infant sleeps...

[@MrSadsack56]

emotionally it instantly attaches to my mind. like it was made for me and feeling like i have been waiting for it .. all i know is after not hearing for a few months , i tear up and listen to quite a few different versions..

[@herbertmarques4424]

You are incredible mister Jenkins!!

[@triciak9a3e6]

This is the musical piece that creates a safe, loving feeling in me. Thank you.. Awesome.!

[@paulettelawrence6680]

MY FAVORITE MUSIC OF ALL TIME....I WANT TO HEAR THIS AT MY FUNERAL.....ITS SO HAUTINGLY BEAUTIFUL AND HEAVENLY!!!

[@lindahorton6509]

I agree perfect for a funeral. It's haunting and sad and just grips your heart.

[@valerieanne223]

I went into the Flower Festival stood at the altar heard this. Holy spirit touched me and released pain. HalleluJah Faithful Lord +

[@cb25]

I’ve been trying to find this and thanks to Carl living to 80 and being celebrated I’ve finally found it.

[@carolinefernwood4573]

one of the most beautiful melodies ever written.

[@carrieboultby7516]

This is so, so adorable! It moves me so much! How can there be so much war in the world, so much division, hatred, and selfishness, and yet, people can create such lovely, lovely music, which can move you to tears, which can make you love, and yearn...?!

[@rolandguilford8301]

It’s an astoundingly powerful piece. Truly stunning.

[@jsun322]

I'm fascinated by the psychology of music... How the combination, sequence and tempo of certain notes, when performed with the appropriate instruments, and/or singing voices, can (quite intentionally) illicit feelings of hope, love, fear, joy, rage, patriotism, despair, etc... And often the simplicity of a song wields it's power. In this case, a series of seven notes, comprised of five tones, are repeated and supported by a consistant lower octave of the third and fifth notes gives this song a nostalgic and hopeful quality. Another example would be John Williams' score for 'Jaws'. The repeated sequence of two and occasionally a third note, starting slowly and gradually increasing in tempo produced a universally recognized theme of fear associated with an impending shark attack on a swimmer in the ocean. Again, simple but very effective. Pino Donaggio's score for the prom disaster scene in 'Carrie' is composed of a series of two (or maybe three) very low notes, played one at a time, each for a long period of time. The result of this extremely efficient cue is menacing and hypnotizing... Amazing. I'm so glad I stumbled upon 'Benedictus' here on KZbin. It's easily one of the most gorgeous songs ever written.

[@atalanta9353]

Up there with Fauré. Simply stunning.

[@tb1641]

Simply magnificent, hauntingly beautifully, extremely emotional composition.

[@nanayjoy]

My 2 & 5 yrs old daughters favorite music

[@restorationofidentity]

Literally this beautiful song makes me cry almost every time.. such a master pieace.. 👍😌😏

[@arleneg9166]

I see stairs leading up to heaven. This is a very beautiful piece. Thank u

[@user-ub4pl6tz2e]

Can't wait for the stairs I live in a buglow Has to be the 21 century master piece classic music 🎶 Karl has given the 🌍 Pure heaven Excellent composer Just need one The rest history Karl done it Talit Have a nice day see you in heaven You couldn't give me a lift I haven't got stairs

[@trees6447]

What an honour to see this man in action in the Royal albert hall on 10 march 2024. Especially this beautiful Benedictus. So beautiful! And what a nice man

[@MERISI001]

Extraordinary man. Extraordinary music.

[@pmajudge]

SIR KARL JENKINS --- THE CREATOR GAVE YOU THE TALENT VIA THE UPPER FLOOR ( BRAINS). SO, THAT YOUR CREATIVE FOR THE WORLD TO LOVE & ADORE LIKE MYSELF TOO. THANKS !! FROM U.K. (2021).

[@RichardASK]

Wonderful hearing Sir Karl talk about his music. Beautiful piece.

[@jk6653]

This music runs through my spirit straight to my soul...🙏🏾

[@mariettegaleaebejer7761]

A very dear friend of mine Claire was called as Soprano in the Maltese National Philharmonic Orchestra. She was specifically requested by the illustrious Karl Jenkins himself!! I am honoured to have been present at the performance which was a dream come true. 🌹🙏🌹

[@midotiger8838]

I heard this lovely song, adopted into my life and it will be played at my funeral. I sometimes wake with this song in my head.

[@alihamidi2883]

I don't understand of 4 dislike ????? how come you would ignore the beauty of it. You better go to ears specialist then.

[@johnpirie3800]

Thank you Maestro!

[@minisynthcollective7822]

I only heard this for the first time last week and it has totally blown me away. Thank you so much for such an amazing piece of Music.

[@angelafield2724]

So love his beautiful piece of music which I have listened to numerous times. Thank you Karl Jenkins.

[@jch6275]

"It's simple tune." All the best tunes are.....

[@joemachunda]

This is amazing . As a lover of the Moody Blues , I know it's a different genre but they have some beautiful simple tunes that are so beautiful. Simple can be dynamic and beautiful

[@froukjematthews3421]

The juxta position of the high notes and the cello makes me cry, every time.....

[@steveokocha9860]

Thank you, sir. This song pierces my heart, it captures the whole essence of life.

[@robinwilliams2005]

Living legend,Sir Karl Jenkins

[@aloisiosimoni165]

Thanks for this beautiful hymn.

[@jennyanddonblakeney1498]

This is my most favourite piece of music. I find it hauntingly beautiful. Thank you for your talent and sharing with the world.

[@jslasher1]

This is a superb work, particularly with Sir Karl's careful analysis. I love the D-Major [D-F#-A] triad.

[@jslasher1]

@@sgtcbusmc8495 Thanks for your input.

[@carolswiedomstephens]

It’s a spiritual masterpiece sir

[@123brownjames]

A beautiful piece of music 🇬🇧❤️

[@kumkumjain9864]

my heart weeps with th first few notes

[@antig4555]

Alleluia! Brilliant

[@joemachunda]

This song is from heaven

[@AlexStolbovakariturnel]

Какой замечательный дядька!

[@riethnel]

An absolute masterpiece..!

[@tracygoode3037]

Benedictus soothes me when I'm stressed.

[@just_watching_you_tube]

Incredible, highly emotive.

[@giaatta9303]

Amazing creation. Thank you.

[@ildikogramling]

it is elevating to listen to it!

[@soonerpups2817]

It is exquisite.

[@colettemurray1234]

The man is a genius.

[@flaviodemouradoria5289]

Uma fantástica Luz no Mundo!!!

[@johnruffy9172]

Fabulouse its my life feelimg

[@tenor79]

Mass of the Ages brought me here.

[@JT1358]

Give me Karl Jenkins' music over that of Vaughan Williams any day of the week.

[@emanuelantoniusaitos9522]

❤️❤️❤️

[@Beatlefan67]

Classic FMTV had some of this beautiful music with a choir of beautiful women. Shame I can't find it on KZbin...

[@gingerbobful]

Hauser , Benedictus by karl Jenkins. Put that in , I think that's the one.

[@lhadzyan7300]

Welll overall it´s because a lot of the harmonics used on Benedictus were reused after the Eternal Knot main theme of Adiemus IV and it was awesome already there on its own before the changes to fit for a more proper traditional Latin lyrics on a Cathollic Christian mass.

[@dimaneculai1501]

I would like to know if the song is inspired by the theme of the film Mission by the composer Enio Moricone.

[@kevinanderson5122]

That programme called Britain got talent that partly true Tom Jones and this musical Genius Karl jenkins This is real talent the sad probability that most of British people do not even know and he also written the music for the biggest movie box ever Avatar This is the real Britain got talent

[@micheleeckford5665]

So beautiful & moving. It says Everything to me. I shall choose this for my funeral. Thank you.

[@Yumemaru.]

Noice.

[@dee2251]

I’m amazed how Catholic this is.

[@thewatchmen4920]

I wish that this could be sang in English language. I bet it would be a small hit for the few people in the United States of America that would enjoy it. Sometimes I have to come back and listen to it 🎧😌😔

[@TheSapphireLeo]

Oh! Why'd you have to be knighted!

[@TheSapphireLeo]

What did you do for that "knighting"?