Composer

:

Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

1572

Average_duration

:

4:59

Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina's 'Coenantibus illis' is a motet from his second book of motets for 5, 6, & 8 voices. The book was published in 1572, and the motet is believed to have been composed around the same time. The piece is written for five voices, with two soprano parts, alto, tenor, and bass. The motet is based on the Gospel of Luke, chapter 24, verses 29-32, which describes the encounter between two disciples and Jesus on the road to Emmaus. The text is in Latin and begins with the words "Coenantibus illis," which means "while they were eating." The piece is divided into three sections, each with its own distinct character. The first section is marked "Moderato" and begins with a homophonic statement of the text by the five voices. The texture then becomes more imitative as the voices pass the melody back and forth. The music is characterized by its smooth, flowing lines and gentle dissonances. The second section is marked "Allegro" and is more lively and rhythmic than the first. The voices are more independent, with each part contributing to the overall texture. The music is characterized by its use of syncopation and lively rhythms. The third section is marked "Adagio" and is the most expressive and emotional of the three. The music is characterized by its use of suspensions and dissonances, which create a sense of tension and release. The voices are once again more homophonic, with the melody passed between the different parts. Overall, 'Coenantibus illis' is a beautiful example of Palestrina's mastery of polyphonic writing. The piece is characterized by its smooth, flowing lines, gentle dissonances, and expressive use of suspensions and dissonances. It premiered in the late 16th century and remains a beloved piece of sacred choral music to this day.

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