O Fortuna
Carl Orff O Fortuna.
“O Fortuna” is the first and most well-known movement of Carl Orff‘s cantata “Carmina Burana.” Carl Orff produced the theatrical cantata “Carmina Burana” in 1935-1936, based on a collection of mediaeval poetry written by various authors. The dramatic and powerful choral section “O Fortuna” sets the tone for the entire composition.
The words to “O Fortuna” are in Latin and are taken from the “Carmina Burana” collection, specifically from a composition titled “Fortuna Imperatrix Mundi” (Fortune, Empress of the World). The text is about the unpredictable character of fortune and fate’s fickle hand. It depicts themes of chance, fate, and the ever-revolving wheel of fortune, which can bring both good and bad circumstances.
Here are the Latin lyrics for the opening of “O Fortuna”:
O Fortuna
velut luna
statu variabilis,
semper crescis
aut decrescis;
vita detestabilis
nunc obdurat
et tunc curat
ludo mentis aciem,
egestatem,
potestatem
dissolvit ut glaciem.
“O Fortuna” has instantly recognisable music. It starts with a booming chorus of voices screaming “O Fortuna” with amazing force and fury. A complete orchestra and percussion accompany the strong choral arrangement, providing a sense of epic grandeur and drama.
Because of its powerful and fascinating character, “O Fortuna” has been widely exploited in popular culture, film, television, and ads. It is frequently used to portray a sense of impending catastrophe or grandeur. The emotional intensity and unforgettable melody of the work have made it one of the most iconic and often performed choral compositions in classical music.
Carl Orff’s “O Fortuna” is a testament to his ability to create music that is both emotionally charged and deeply memorable, and it remains a beloved and enduring piece in the world of classical music.
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