fathershane reblogged
Ave Maris Stella (Latin, “Hail Star of the Sea”) is a plainsong Vespers hymn to Mary. It is of uncertain origin and can be dated back at least as far as the eighth century. It was especially popular in the Middle Ages and has been used by many composers as the basis of other compositions. The creation of the original hymn has been attributed to several people, including Saint Venantius Fortunatus[1] and Hermannus Contractus.[2] The melody is found in the Irish plainsong “Gabhaim Molta Bríde”, a piece in praise of St. Bridget.
Ave, maris stella, Dei mater alma, atque semper virgo, felix cœli porta. Sumens illud “Ave” Gabrielis ore, funda nos in pace, mutans Evæ nomen. Hail, star of the sea, Nurturing Mother of God, And ever Virgin Happy gate of Heaven. Receiving that “Ave” From the mouth of Gabriel, Establish us in peace, Transforming the name of “Eva” (Eve).
This chant was my first introduction to Gregorian chant. Good way to start!