“Gopher Tuna” — What ‘Carmina Burana’ Really Sounds Like

By Stephen Raskauskas |

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Carl Orff’s famous Carmina Burana, a scenic cantata based on medieval poems, is one of the most recognizable pieces of classical music. We’ve all heard it countless times. But, do you know what the text says? The poetry muses on life, death, fortune, and of course, drinking, gluttony, gambling, and sex. Since the text is in Latin, you may not have taken the time to read a translation. One internet user has provided a convenient translation of the movement “O Fortuna” for those who want to follow along. Or, at least a translation of what it sounds like!

 


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