Composer

:

Claudio Monteverdi

Genre

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

ca. 1650

Average_duration

:

8:11

Claudio Monteverdi's 'Dixit Dominus (I)' is a sacred choral work that was composed in the early 17th century. It is part of his larger work, 'Messa a quatro voci, et Salmi', which was written for the Duke of Mantua. The premiere of the work is not known, but it is believed to have been performed in Mantua in the early 1600s. The work is divided into six movements, each of which is based on a different psalm. The first movement, 'Dixit Dominus', is a setting of Psalm 110. It is a grand and majestic piece that features a full choir and orchestra. The music is characterized by its use of antiphonal singing, where the choir is divided into two groups that sing back and forth to each other. The music is also marked by its use of dramatic contrasts, with sections of loud, powerful singing alternating with quieter, more contemplative passages. The second movement, 'Donec ponam', is a setting of Psalm 109. It is a more subdued piece than the first movement, with a solo soprano singing the opening lines before the choir joins in. The music is characterized by its use of chromatic harmonies, which give it a sense of tension and unease. The third movement, 'Virgam virtutis', is a setting of Psalm 110. It is a lively and energetic piece that features a solo tenor singing the opening lines before the choir joins in. The music is characterized by its use of syncopated rhythms and lively dance-like melodies. The fourth movement, 'Tecum principium', is a setting of Psalm 109. It is a more contemplative piece than the previous movements, with a solo alto singing the opening lines before the choir joins in. The music is characterized by its use of rich harmonies and expressive melodies. The fifth movement, 'Juravit Dominus', is a setting of Psalm 109. It is a dramatic and powerful piece that features a solo bass singing the opening lines before the choir joins in. The music is characterized by its use of bold, declamatory melodies and powerful choral writing. The final movement, 'Dominus a dextris tuis', is a setting of Psalm 109. It is a grand and majestic piece that features a full choir and orchestra. The music is characterized by its use of antiphonal singing and dramatic contrasts, with sections of loud, powerful singing alternating with quieter, more contemplative passages. Overall, Monteverdi's 'Dixit Dominus (I)' is a masterful work of sacred choral music that showcases his skill as a composer. Its use of antiphonal singing, dramatic contrasts, and expressive melodies make it a powerful and moving piece that continues to be performed and admired today.

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