Finished the Strife

- Steven Ottomanyi

PDF Sample

Use: Eastertide
Required Resources: SATB choir, handbells
Language: English

Finita iam sunt prælia is an anonymous Latin hymn first published in the 1695 Jesuit collection: Symphonia Sirenum Selectarum, Cologne. Frequently translated, "The strife is o'er, the battle done," we present here an alternate translation, "Finished the strife of battle now."

Verse 1 of the chant-like, Dorian-mode tune FINITA NOVA is presented by unison women's voices, accompanied by handbells. Verse 2 is given to the men, with women adding harmony and organum, again with handbells. Verse 3 introduces more counterpoint and a sixteenth-note figuration in the handbells. Verse 4 begins in unison and expands to full SATB counterpoint, with the bells playing alternate quarter notes and dotted quarter notes, accenting the 2 and 3 note rhythmic pattern of the chant melody. An "Amen. Alleluia!" completes the work, ending on a surprising A major chord.

This modal motet explores the mystery of the Resurrection event. Useful throughout Eastertide, it is perhaps most appropriate for the Easter Vigil or an early morning Easter Sunday liturgy.