Stella Splendens

Sympkyn of the Moor

Date:
Late 14th century

Description:
Stella Splendens is a vibrant pilgrim song from the Llibre Vermell de Montserrat, a manuscript compiled circa 1399 at the monastery of Montserrat in Catalonia. The title translates to “Shining Star”, referring to the Virgin Mary, who is praised in the song as a beacon of light guiding pilgrims to her holy shrine.

Discussion:
This piece is one of the most well-known from the Llibre Vermell. It features a catchy, dance-like melody in a lively triple metre, making it ideal for group singing and processions. The song’s structure allows for responsorial or alternated performance and has been interpreted both as a monophonic piece and with added harmonies in modern settings.

It remains a favourite in early music circles, both for its historical context and its musical appeal. The joyful, almost celebratory tone distinguishes it from more solemn Marian chants, aligning with the festive nature of pilgrimage gatherings.

Version used by Ildhafn musicians is on page 66 of the Big Lochac Snogbook. Note that after bar 34 we hold for another bar, so effectively the minim D and A become four beats long. Similarly when we repeat from the start, the very last bar also becomes four beats. We customarily play a chorus to finish, after the last verse.

Composer:
Anonymous (from the Llibre Vermell de Montserrat)

Arranged by:
Various modern arrangers for vocal ensembles and early instruments

Sheet Music:
Available in editions of the Llibre Vermell and early music anthologies
The arrangement we use is available here as a pdf, mus or musescore file

Parts:
Originally monophonic; often arranged for 2–4 voices or instruments

Type:
Sacred song / pilgrim song

Language:
Latin

Ranges:

  • Melody typically fits within D4–E5; flexible in arrangement

Advice for beginners:
An excellent introduction to medieval music, especially suitable for groups. The rhythm is engaging and the melody easy to memorise. When sung or played in ensemble, attention to phrasing and rhythmic unity helps bring out the joyful character. Instrumentalists might accompany with drones, percussion, or parallel harmonies.

Sound Files:
Here are some sound files for reference. Alto, tenor