Composer

:

Dietrich Buxtehude

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

6:39

Dietrich Buxtehude's 'Quaemadmodum desiderat cervus' is a sacred vocal work composed for five voices and basso continuo. The piece was likely composed in the late 1670s or early 1680s during Buxtehude's tenure as the organist at the Marienkirche in Lübeck, Germany. The work is structured in five movements, each of which is based on a verse from Psalm 42. The first movement is a duet for soprano and alto voices, with the soprano singing the text "Quaemadmodum desiderat cervus ad fontes aquarum" (As the deer longs for the streams of water). The second movement is a trio for alto, tenor, and bass voices, with the tenor singing "Sitivit anima mea ad Deum fortem" (My soul thirsts for the living God). The third movement is a quartet for all four voices, with the bass singing "Quando veniam et apparebo ante faciem Dei?" (When shall I come and appear before the face of God?). The fourth movement is a duet for soprano and alto voices, with the alto singing "Fuerunt mihi lacrimae meae panes die ac nocte" (My tears have been my bread day and night). The final movement is a quintet for all five voices, with the soprano singing "Spera in Deo, quoniam adhuc confitebor illi" (Hope in God, for I will yet give thanks to him). The work is characterized by its expressive and emotive vocal writing, with each movement conveying a different aspect of the psalmist's longing for God. The use of duets, trios, and quartets in addition to the full quintet allows for a variety of textures and colors throughout the piece. The basso continuo provides a steady foundation for the vocal lines, with occasional flourishes and ornamentation adding interest and depth. 'Quaemadmodum desiderat cervus' is a prime example of Buxtehude's skill as a composer of vocal music, and remains a beloved work in the sacred choral repertoire.

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