Gloria in Excelsis Deo (from Gloria)

The Latin text of the Gloria is a magnificent hymn of praise which dates from the earliest centuries of the church. French composer Francis Poulenc (1899-1963) has set these words to music in a rich, incandescent manner which seems to portray a cosmic dance before the throne of heaven itself. These two excerpts from the complete piano/vocal score mark the first time separate octavos from the Gloria have been made available. Translations for study are included.