Saint Francois d'Assise (Act 2, Scene 6), Score

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'Assisedisplays 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'Assiseincorporates Messiaen's popular compositional techniques, such as his modes of limitedtransposition, uses of leitmotifs, use of birdsong and an instrumentation for a huge orchestra. This piece also makes use of the composer's synesthesia.Saint Francois D'Assiseis essential to all advanced Opera companies seeking to address a modern and varied performance work.