St. Francis of Assisi (Act 1, Scene 3)

Olivier Messiaen (1908-1992) is known for his unique composition style. Incorporating complex rhythms, harmony, melodies and his passion for ornithology, his Opera, Saint Francois D'Assise, is no exception to the composer's popular, distinctive style.

Composed between 1975-1983, Saint Francois D'Assise displays the composer's devout Catholicism. The work is in three acts and eight scenes and both the music and libretto were written by Messiaen. Saint Francois D'Assise incorporates Messiaen's popular compositional techniques, such as his modes of limited transposition, uses ofleitmotifs, use of birdsong and an instrumentation for a huge orchestra. This piece also makes use of the composer's synesthesia. Saint Francois D'Assise is essential to all advanced Opera companies seeking to address a modern and varied performance work.