Composer

:

Orlande de Lassus

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Mass

Publication Date

:

1577

Average_duration

:

23:37

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

Orlande de Lassus, also known as Roland de Lassus, was a prominent composer of the Renaissance period. He was born in Mons, Belgium in 1532 and spent most of his career in Munich, Germany, where he served as a court musician for the Duke of Bavaria. Lassus was a prolific composer, producing over 2,000 works in a variety of genres, including chansons, madrigals, motets, and masses. One of Lassus' most famous works is the Missa Susanne un jour, H. iv/121, which was composed in the late 16th century. The piece is a setting of the Ordinary of the Mass, which includes the Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, and Agnus Dei. The title of the mass refers to the French chanson "Susanne un jour," which is used as the basis for the mass's cantus firmus. The Missa Susanne un jour is written for four voices (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass) and is characterized by its rich harmonies, expressive melodies, and intricate counterpoint. The mass is divided into six movements, each of which has its own distinct character and mood. The first movement, the Kyrie, is a solemn and introspective prayer for mercy. The Gloria, which follows, is a joyful and exuberant celebration of God's glory and majesty. The Credo, the longest movement of the mass, is a statement of faith that recounts the key tenets of the Christian religion. The Sanctus is a hymn of praise that exalts God's holiness and power. The Agnus Dei, the final movement, is a plea for mercy and peace. Throughout the mass, Lassus employs a variety of musical techniques to create a sense of unity and coherence. He uses the chanson "Susanne un jour" as a cantus firmus, weaving it into the texture of the music in subtle and intricate ways. He also employs a variety of rhythmic and melodic motifs that recur throughout the mass, creating a sense of continuity and coherence. The Missa Susanne un jour was premiered in Munich in the late 16th century and quickly became one of Lassus' most popular works. It has since been performed and recorded by countless ensembles and remains a beloved masterpiece of the Renaissance period.

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