Why Carmina Burana is Something Everyone Should Experience

We all recognize the opening movement of Carl Orff’s crazy cantata, Carmina Burana, because “O Fortuna” has been featured in just about every epic movie scene in existence. But how many people have actually sat down to listen to a full length performance of the masterpiece? After rehearsing Carmina as part of the Cornell Chorale this semester, here’s why I think everyone should experience the insanity of Carmina Burana at least once in his or her life.

1. The text

The text of Carmina Burana comes from a book of compiled manuscripts of the same name, containing over 200 poems written by students and clergy in the 11th, 12th and 13th centuries. The themes of the poems Orff chooses for his composition range from the ever fluctuating nature of fortune to love, and there is even an entire portion of the piece that’s basically a really long drinking song. There’s something for everyone!

2. The drama

If you love a little drama in your life, then Carmina Burana will certainly entertain you. Because of its varied themes and moods, this piece will constantly keep you on your toes. At some point or another, just about every instrument and performer involved in the performance will have something insane going on. You’ll have to see it to believe the magnitude of it!

3. The different elements

Every performance of Carmina is unique and will have different interpretations of the piece, but one thing that’s for sure is there are a ton of people involved in a performance, from an orchestra to pianos to castanets to soloists. There’s even a children’s choir involved. Pretty much anything you can imagine is somehow featured in Carmina.

4. The history

Beyond that the text was written so long ago, Carmina Burana itself was composed by Carl Orff between 1935 and 1936 and premiered in 1937. It has been performed many times since then, and is one of the most well-known pieces from the 20th century. Whether you’re a fan of classical music or not, the significance of Carmina extends to everyone.

5. It’s fantastic

There are some things that words just can’t convey, and Carmina Burana is pretty indescribable. That’s why you have to see it for yourself!

The Cornell Chorale will be performing Carmina Burana in Sage Chapel this Friday, May 5th at 8 PM. Admission is free, so be sure to check it out!