Composer

:

Philip van Wilder

Genre

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

6:20

"Vidi civitatem" is a sacred motet composed by Philip van Wilder, a Flemish composer of the Renaissance era. The piece was composed in the late 16th century, and its premiere date is unknown. The motet is written for four voices, and it is characterized by its rich harmonies, expressive melodies, and intricate counterpoint. The piece is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a different text from the Book of Revelation. The first movement, "Vidi civitatem sanctam," is a setting of Revelation 21:2, which describes the holy city of Jerusalem descending from heaven. The music is solemn and majestic, with the voices weaving in and out of each other in intricate counterpoint. The second movement, "Et audui vocem," is a setting of Revelation 21:3, which describes the voice of God saying, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men." The music is more lively and joyful than the first movement, with the voices dancing around each other in a lively polyphonic texture. The final movement, "Ecce tabernaculum," is a setting of Revelation 21:3-4, which describes God wiping away all tears from the eyes of his people. The music is tender and expressive, with the voices blending together in rich harmonies. Overall, "Vidi civitatem" is a beautiful and expressive motet that showcases van Wilder's skill as a composer. Its rich harmonies, intricate counterpoint, and expressive melodies make it a masterpiece of the Renaissance era.

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