Composer

:

Alfonso X (el Sabio)

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

5:10

Cantiga de Santa María 38, Pois que Deus quis da Virgen fillo, was composed by Alfonso X (el Sabio) in the 13th century. It is a part of the Cantigas de Santa María, a collection of over 400 songs dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The Cantigas were written in Galician-Portuguese, a language spoken in the Iberian Peninsula during the Middle Ages. The premiere of Cantiga de Santa María 38 is unknown, but it was likely performed in the royal court of Alfonso X. The song is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is a solo vocal performance accompanied by a drone instrument, likely a hurdy-gurdy. The melody is simple and repetitive, with the singer repeating the same phrase several times. The lyrics describe the birth of Jesus and the role of the Virgin Mary in his life. The second movement features a chorus of singers accompanied by a variety of instruments, including a lute, a harp, and a percussion instrument. The melody is more complex than the first movement, with the singers weaving in and out of each other's lines. The lyrics describe the miracles performed by the Virgin Mary, including healing the sick and protecting sailors at sea. The third movement is a solo vocal performance accompanied by a harp. The melody is slow and mournful, with the singer lamenting the death of Jesus and the role of the Virgin Mary in his crucifixion. The lyrics describe the pain and suffering of Mary as she watched her son die on the cross. Overall, Cantiga de Santa María 38 is a beautiful and moving tribute to the Virgin Mary. Its simple melodies and heartfelt lyrics have made it a beloved piece of music for centuries.

More....