Composer

:

Orlande de Lassus

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Publication Date

:

1576

Average_duration

:

1:00

'Bestia curvafia pulices, M. xviii (S. xi/44)' is a motet composed by Orlande de Lassus, a prominent composer of the late Renaissance period. The piece was composed in the late 16th century and premiered in Munich, Germany. The motet is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is marked by a lively and energetic tempo, with the choir singing in a homophonic style. The second movement is slower and more contemplative, with the choir singing in a polyphonic style. The final movement is marked by a return to the lively tempo of the first movement, with the choir singing in a more complex polyphonic style. The text of the motet is taken from a poem by the Italian poet Francesco Petrarca, and it describes the struggles of a flea trying to survive on the back of a crooked beast. The text is full of vivid imagery and metaphor, and Lassus's music captures the mood and tone of the poem perfectly. One of the most striking characteristics of 'Bestia curvafia pulices' is Lassus's use of chromaticism. The piece is full of unexpected harmonic shifts and dissonances, which create a sense of tension and drama. Lassus also makes use of word painting, where the music reflects the meaning of the text. For example, in the second movement, the choir sings the word "mors" (death) in a descending melody, which creates a sense of finality and sadness. Overall, 'Bestia curvafia pulices' is a masterful example of Renaissance choral music. Lassus's skillful use of harmony, rhythm, and text painting create a powerful and emotional work that still resonates with audiences today.

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