Ave Maria (Stravinsky)

The Ave Maria (also known as Bogoroditse Devo) is a short sacred choral work composed by Igor Stravinsky. It exists in two distinct versions: one in Church Slavonic (1934) and one in Latin (1948-49).

The earlier Church Slavonic version, Bogoroditse Devo, is part of Stravinsky's Pater Noster and Credo, forming a triptych of short, a cappella religious settings written during his period of increasing religious conviction in the 1930s. This version is characterized by its simple, almost archaic modal melody and homophonic texture, reflecting Stravinsky's interest in Russian Orthodox liturgical music.

The Latin Ave Maria is a revised and slightly more complex version of the original Slavonic setting. While retaining the essence of the melody and the overall simplicity, the Latin version incorporates subtle harmonic shifts and a refined understanding of counterpoint, demonstrating Stravinsky's evolving compositional style. Both versions share a restrained and reverent quality, a marked contrast to the composer's earlier, more rhythmically complex works. The text, of course, is the traditional Roman Catholic prayer to the Virgin Mary, “Hail Mary, full of grace...”

The Ave Maria represents a significant turning point in Stravinsky's career, marking his embrace of neo-classicism and his return to religious themes. The piece is frequently performed by choirs of various sizes and remains a staple of sacred choral repertoire. The differences between the Church Slavonic and Latin versions offer interesting insights into Stravinsky's compositional process and his changing relationship with religious music and language.