Composer

:

Tomás Luis de Victoria

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Publication Date

:

1585

Average_duration

:

2:29

Tomás Luis de Victoria was a Spanish composer of the Renaissance period, known for his sacred music. One of his most famous works is "Tradiderunt me," a motet for Holy Week. "Tradiderunt me" was composed in 1585 and premiered in the Chapel Royal of Madrid. It is a six-part motet, written for two sopranos, alto, tenor, baritone, and bass. The text is taken from the Gospel of Matthew, describing the betrayal of Jesus by Judas. The motet is divided into three movements. The first movement is a setting of the Latin text "Tradiderunt me in manus impiorum" ("They delivered me into the hands of the wicked"). The music is dark and mournful, reflecting the somber mood of Holy Week. The second movement is a setting of the text "Ego sum panis vivus" ("I am the living bread"). This movement is more uplifting, with a brighter melody and more complex harmonies. It serves as a reminder of the hope and salvation that Jesus offers. The final movement returns to the text of the first movement, with a repetition of "Tradiderunt me." The music is more intense and dramatic, building to a powerful climax before resolving into a peaceful conclusion. Overall, "Tradiderunt me" is a masterful example of Victoria's skill as a composer. The music is deeply emotional and expressive, capturing the essence of the Holy Week story. The use of multiple voices and complex harmonies creates a rich and layered sound that is both beautiful and haunting.

More....