This edition was prepared by Catuí Côrte-Real Suarez — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Hymnus pontificius
Staff Notation • Sacred, Hymns
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3 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
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Hymnus pontificius by Charles Gounod — Lyrics
Roma, alma parens, Sanctórum Martyrúmque,
Nóbile carmen, te décete sonorúmque:
Glória in excélsis, patérnæ majestáti,
Pax et in terra fratérnæ caritáti:
Ad te clamámus, Angélicum pastórem:
Quam vere refers, tu mitem Redemptórem:
Magíster sanctum, custódis dogma Christi:
Quod unum vitæ, solámen datur isti.
Non prævalébunt horréndæ portæ inférnæ,
Sed vis amóris veristatísque ætérnæ.
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About Hymnus pontificius
This is a striking unison setting of a Latin text, likely intended for liturgical use. The music possesses a noble and declamatory character, perfectly suited to the grand pronouncements of the hymn. The composer's setting enhances the reverence and majesty of the words, which speak of Rome as the mother of saints, a beacon of faith, and a symbol of eternal history. The text praises God and speaks of His peace on earth, while also invoking Rome as the pastor of angels and the faithful reflection of the Redeemer. It looks forward to the triumph of love and truth over the gates of hell, concluding with a powerful affirmation of Rome's enduring glory and its role as a light to all nations.
