What is the meaning of 'Ave Maria'?

Franz Schubert’s “Ave Maria” is one of the most recognizable pieces of classical music, played in church services, at weddings and during funerals. But how did it become so ubiquitous — and so beloved?

Schubert composed the music in 1825 as part of his seven-song opus Liederzyklus vom Fräulein vom See, based on Walter Scott’s poem “The Lady of the Lake.” The opening words of “Ellen’s Third Song” are “Ave Maria” (Latin for “Hail Mary”), which likely led to its adaptation as a setting for the Catholic prayer of that name. The words were paired so frequently with Schubert’s melody that a misconception has arisen that he wrote the music specifically as a setting for the prayer.

Indeed, “Ave Maria” has become indelibly associated with religious rites and other solemn occasions. But it also has been used to create a mood in many movies, including Young Frankenstein, A Bronx Tale and The Batman.

Perhaps the most famous movie appearance, one that hugely increased the work’s popularity, was its use in Disney’s 1940 animated film Fantasia. “Ave Maria” was connected almost seamlessly at the end of Modest Mussorgsky’s Night on Bald Mountain, sending ghosts to the grave and ushering in a procession of monks.

Because of its simplicity and majesty, “Ave Maria” has been recorded by many legendary singers. Enjoy these examples of a few of the most iconic.

Luciano Pavarotti

Here the legendary singer is joined by the Los Angeles Music Center Opera Chorus and the L.A. Philharmonic.

Andrea Bocelli

The singer is accompanied by frequent collaborator David Foster.

Barbara Bonney

This recording by the American soprano often is misattributed to the great Maria Callas.

Celine Dion

The Canadian singer released this delicate version in 2015.

Barbra Streisand

The piece is included on many Christmas albums, including one by the superstar.

Josh Groban

The singer also included “Ave Maria” on a Christmas compilation.

Frank Sinatra

Even Old Blue Eyes got into the act.