Composer

:

Tomás Luis de Victoria

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Publication Date

:

1583

Average_duration

:

2:02

"Iste sanctus pro lege" is a sacred motet composed by the Spanish composer Tomás Luis de Victoria. The piece was composed in the late 16th century, during the Renaissance period, and was first performed in the Chapel Royal of Madrid in 1585. The motet is written for four voices, with the text taken from the Book of Wisdom in the Bible. The piece is divided into three movements, with each movement featuring a different text from the Book of Wisdom. The first movement begins with a solemn and majestic opening, with the four voices singing in unison. The text is taken from Wisdom 10:10-14, which speaks of the virtues of the righteous and how they are rewarded by God. The music is characterized by its rich harmonies and expressive melodies, which convey the solemnity and grandeur of the text. The second movement is more lively and energetic, with the voices singing in a more complex and intricate manner. The text is taken from Wisdom 3:1-3, which speaks of the rewards of the righteous in the afterlife. The music is characterized by its intricate counterpoint and rhythmic complexity, which convey the joy and exultation of the text. The final movement is a return to the solemnity of the first movement, with the voices singing in unison once again. The text is taken from Wisdom 5:16-20, which speaks of the fate of the wicked and the triumph of the righteous. The music is characterized by its rich harmonies and expressive melodies, which convey the solemnity and grandeur of the text. Overall, "Iste sanctus pro lege" is a masterpiece of Renaissance sacred music, characterized by its rich harmonies, expressive melodies, and intricate counterpoint. The piece is a testament to Victoria's skill as a composer and his deep faith in God.

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