Regina caeli

Composer: Ivo Antognini

Words from Pietro Ferrario (Conductor of the choir that premiered this piece):

This new work by Ivo Antognini sets itself apart by a unique atmosphere related to the text: not a grandiose and dramatic setting, as often is the case, but a consistent and measured gait from which a surprising, luminous yet intimate exultation emerges. 

The initial idea in A minor, built on the tenor/bass voices in ostinato, returns several times in slight variations as a refrain. These are interspersed with contrasting episodes of rhythm and harmony, an effect unmistakably personal and characteristic of the Swiss composer.

Episodic but easily recognizable is the appearance of the incipit of the Gregorian antiphon, the last of which leads to a triumphal and dazzling coda.

My choir, the Calycanthus Vocal Ensemble and I are deeply grateful and proud of the dedication.