Composer

:

Orlande de Lassus

Genre

:

Choral

Publication Date

:

1577

'Novae aliquot et ante hac non ita usitatae contiones sauvissimae' is a collection of six Latin motets composed by Orlande de Lassus. The collection was composed in 1576 and premiered in Munich, Germany. The six motets in the collection are 'Audi dulcis amica mea', 'Veni in hortum meum', 'Surge propera amica mea', 'Nigra sum sed formosa', 'Vulnerasti cor meum', and 'Ego flos campi'. Each motet is written for five voices (SSATB) and is characterized by its use of rich harmonies, expressive melodies, and intricate counterpoint. The first motet, 'Audi dulcis amica mea', is a setting of a text from the Song of Solomon. The motet begins with a gentle and flowing melody in the soprano voice, which is then taken up by the other voices in turn. The harmonies are lush and expressive, and the counterpoint is intricate and skillfully crafted. The second motet, 'Veni in hortum meum', is a setting of a text from the Song of Solomon. The motet begins with a lively and rhythmic melody in the alto voice, which is then taken up by the other voices in turn. The harmonies are bright and colorful, and the counterpoint is lively and energetic. The third motet, 'Surge propera amica mea', is a setting of a text from the Song of Solomon. The motet begins with a gentle and flowing melody in the soprano voice, which is then taken up by the other voices in turn. The harmonies are rich and expressive, and the counterpoint is intricate and skillfully crafted. The fourth motet, 'Nigra sum sed formosa', is a setting of a text from the Song of Solomon. The motet begins with a dark and brooding melody in the bass voice, which is then taken up by the other voices in turn. The harmonies are somber and mournful, and the counterpoint is complex and intricate. The fifth motet, 'Vulnerasti cor meum', is a setting of a text from the Song of Solomon. The motet begins with a plaintive and mournful melody in the alto voice, which is then taken up by the other voices in turn. The harmonies are rich and expressive, and the counterpoint is intricate and skillfully crafted. The sixth motet, 'Ego flos campi', is a setting of a text from the Song of Solomon. The motet begins with a lively and rhythmic melody in the soprano voice, which is then taken up by the other voices in turn. The harmonies are bright and colorful, and the counterpoint is lively and energetic. Overall, 'Novae aliquot et ante hac non ita usitatae contiones sauvissimae' is a collection of six exquisite motets that showcase Lassus's mastery of harmony, melody, and counterpoint. The motets are characterized by their rich harmonies, expressive melodies, and intricate counterpoint, and they are a testament to Lassus's skill as a composer.

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