Composer

:

Francisco Guerrero

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1589

Average_duration

:

2:22

'O qué mesa u qué manjar!' is a six-voice villancico composed by Francisco Guerrero, a Spanish composer of the Renaissance period. The piece was composed in the late 16th century and premiered in Seville, Spain. The villancico is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is in a lively triple meter and features a call-and-response structure between the upper and lower voices. The second movement is slower and more contemplative, with a homophonic texture and a focus on the text. The final movement returns to the lively triple meter of the first movement, with a joyful and celebratory character. The text of the villancico is a celebration of the abundance and richness of the table, with references to various foods and drinks. The opening line, "O qué mesa u qué manjar!" (Oh, what a table and what food!), sets the tone for the piece. The text also includes references to the Nativity, with mentions of the shepherds and the star of Bethlehem. Musically, 'O qué mesa u qué manjar!' is characterized by its lively rhythms, rich harmonies, and intricate polyphony. Guerrero makes use of imitative counterpoint, with each voice taking turns presenting the main melodic material. The piece also features frequent changes in texture and dynamics, creating a sense of contrast and variety. Overall, 'O qué mesa u qué manjar!' is a lively and joyful celebration of the abundance and richness of the table, with a musical style that reflects the exuberance of the text.

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