Double Choir (SATB/SATB) unaccompanied

NOTE FROM THE COMPOSER

Dante Alighieri was born in Florence, Italy, in 1265 into a low-aristocracy family. Besides his mastery of philosophy, theology , and poetry, Dante also pursued a political career and held some important posts. His best known work as a literary figure is the Divine Commedia (Divine Comedy), a wonderful literary expression of medieval culture. This work is about the story of  Pilgrim and their trials and tribulations as they journeyed from the Inferno (hero) on to Purgatory, and finally to Paradiso (heaven).  The Pilgrim’s travel is full of danger and adventure but they are absolutely dedicated to reaching the “supreme light” (Paradiso). This work picks up the story where the Pilgrim has finally realized they have found the way to Paradise.

The two choirs are separate units, and not mixed together.  Further, they should be located adjacent or nearly so to each other so that the interplay of musical ideas can be realized effectively.