Gabriel Fauré’s “Cantique de Jean Racine” is a choral work composed in 1865 when Fauré was 19. Written for a four-part choir, it’s a setting of a Latin text by the 17th-century French playwright Jean Racine, which reflects a deep, devotional tone. The text is a hymn of praise and supplication, asking for divine grace and mercy.
Fauré’s composition is noted for its lyrical beauty and sophisticated harmony, showcasing his early mastery of choral writing. The piece begins with a serene, flowing melody in the sopranos, which is then developed and harmonized throughout the choir. The work features lush, rich chords and a gentle, flowing rhythm, characteristic of Fauré’s style, blending simplicity with depth. Its mood is one of quiet contemplation and reverence, aligning with the text’s themes of divine worship and reflection.
