Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: french
Song Meaning of “Assumpta est Maria” by Guillaume-Gabriel Nivers
The Renaissance composer Guillaume-Gabriel Nivers, also known as Nivers Guilliaume, wrote “Assumpta Est Maria” many centuries ago, and it continues to be a beloved piece today. This masterpiece praises Mary, the mother of Jesus, for her greatness and grace. The song opens with the choir singing an exultant proclamation that Mary has been ‘taken up’–in other words, into Heaven. This is echoed by the instrumentalists, playing with vigor and joy and celebrating Mary’s ascent.
The piece continues with several themes referencing the biblical story of Mary’s assumption. Lyrically, the choir sings of her ‘glory’, ‘luminous beauty’, and her holiness. The lyrics are complemented by the dazzling instrumentation and relentless crescendos, building up overwhelming excitement and emotion as Mary ascends into Heaven.
The song closes with a passage from the Bible, as the choir swells and their voices portend the glory of Mary. The whole piece is an artful and stirring tribute to Mary, and paints a vivid image of her ascent. It is a song of admiration, joy, and celebration and is a fitting embodiment of the love and reverence held for Mary by her devoted followers.