Composer

:

Constantijn Huygens

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

2:43

"Dilataverunt super me" is a sacred motet composed by Constantijn Huygens, a Dutch poet, composer, and diplomat, in the early 17th century. The piece was written in Latin and is based on Psalm 38:18-19, which translates to "For I will declare my iniquity; I will be sorry for my sin. But my enemies live, and are stronger than I: and they that hate me wrongfully are multiplied." The motet was likely composed in the early 1620s, during Huygens' time as a diplomat in The Hague. It was first performed in the court chapel of Prince Maurits of Nassau, a patron of Huygens, and later became a popular piece in Dutch choral music. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked "Adagio" and is characterized by a somber, introspective mood. The second movement, marked "Allegro," is more lively and energetic, with a sense of urgency and intensity. The final movement, marked "Adagio," returns to the introspective mood of the first movement, with a sense of resignation and acceptance. The piece is scored for four-part choir, with each voice part given equal importance and complexity. The harmonies are rich and complex, with frequent use of dissonance and chromaticism. The text is set in a declamatory style, with the music closely following the natural rhythms and inflections of the Latin text. Overall, "Dilataverunt super me" is a powerful and emotionally charged piece of choral music, reflecting Huygens' deep religious faith and his struggles with sin and redemption. Its popularity in Dutch choral music has endured to this day, and it remains a beloved and frequently performed work in the repertoire.

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