Composer

:

Alfonso X (el Sabio)

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

3:43

Cantiga de Santa María 123, De Santa María sinal qual xe quer, is a medieval Spanish song composed by Alfonso X (el Sabio) in the 13th century. The song is part of a collection of 420 songs known as the Cantigas de Santa María, which were written in Galician-Portuguese and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The Cantiga de Santa María 123 was composed in the late 13th century and was likely premiered in the court of Alfonso X. The song is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is a solo vocal section that begins with a simple melody sung by a single voice. The melody is then repeated with variations, and the voice is joined by a chorus of singers. The music is characterized by its simple, repetitive melody and the use of a drone bass. The second movement is an instrumental interlude that features a soloist playing a melody on a stringed instrument, likely a vielle or a lute. The melody is accompanied by a drone bass and is characterized by its virtuosic flourishes and ornamentation. The third movement is a choral section that features a full choir singing in harmony. The music is characterized by its complex harmonies and the use of polyphony, with multiple voices singing different melodies at the same time. The lyrics of the Cantiga de Santa María 123 tell the story of a miracle performed by the Virgin Mary. The song describes how a man who had lost his sight was miraculously healed by the Virgin Mary, who appeared to him in a vision. The lyrics are written in Galician-Portuguese and are characterized by their simple, straightforward language and their religious themes. Overall, the Cantiga de Santa María 123 is a beautiful example of medieval Spanish music, characterized by its simple melodies, virtuosic instrumental passages, and complex choral harmonies. The song is a testament to the skill and creativity of Alfonso X (el Sabio), one of the most important composers of the medieval period.

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