Akathistos Hymn to the Mother of God: music by Ilarion
The Akathistos is one of the oldest and best-loved songs of the Eastern Christian tradition: a great hymn of praise to the Mother of God. Ilarion, tenor and composer, has given it new music, where the lyricism of Italian bel canto meets the depth of Byzantine spirituality.
What the Akathistos is
The name comes from Greek and means "not seated": it is the hymn the tradition sings standing, as a sign of veneration. Born in the Byzantine world, probably in the sixth century, it has an uncertain author and a solemn structure: 24 stanzas that follow the letters of the Greek alphabet, alternating the story of the mystery of the Incarnation with praises addressed to Mary. According to tradition it was sung in Constantinople in thanksgiving for the city's deliverance from the siege of 626.
It is still sung today in the Orthodox Churches, especially in Lent, and is also loved and prayed by Catholics: a hymn that unites East and West in the same praise.
Ilarion's music
On the ancient text Ilarion has composed music that does not imitate the past but listens to it: the melodic line of Italian bel canto rests on the words of the hymn and accompanies them with respect, so that prayer remains at the centre. The result is a performance that turns the sacred space into a single great breath.
Sicily, a land of hymnographers
It is no coincidence that this music was born in Sicily. For centuries the island was part of the Byzantine world, and it gave the Eastern liturgy one of its greatest poets: Saint Joseph the Hymnographer, born in Sicily. His story, and that of Byzantine Sicily, are told on their own pages.
Where it can be performed
- Cathedrals, basilicas and shrines
- Sacred music festivals and concert series
- Marian celebrations and feasts
- Gatherings of Catholics and Orthodox
Ilarion is available to perform it in Italy and abroad. Alongside sacred music he also brings to the concert stage Neapolitan classics, serenades and Sicilian music.
Check availability for a performance of the Akathistos Hymn.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Akathistos Hymn?
It is an ancient Byzantine hymn of praise to the Mother of God, probably composed in the sixth century: 24 stanzas that follow the Greek alphabet, alternating the story of the Incarnation with praises to Mary.
Why is it called Akathistos?
In Greek it means "not seated": the tradition sings it standing, as a sign of veneration.
Who composed the music?
The music is by Ilarion, tenor and composer, who wrote it on the ancient text of the hymn, uniting Italian bel canto with Eastern spirituality.
Is the Akathistos sung by Catholics or by the Orthodox?
By both: it is sung in the Orthodox Churches, especially in Lent, and is also loved and prayed by Catholics.
Where can it be performed?
In cathedrals, basilicas and shrines, at sacred music festivals, at Marian celebrations and at gatherings of Catholics and Orthodox, in Italy and abroad.
How do I request a performance?
Through the request form, with the date, the place and the occasion.