Composer

:

Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Offertory

Compose Date

:

1593

Average_duration

:

2:32

Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina's 'Angelus Domini' is a sacred choral work that was composed in the late 16th century. It is part of his 'Complete Offertories' collection, which was published in 1593. The piece is written for four-part choir, and it is a beautiful example of Palestrina's mastery of polyphonic composition. The 'Angelus Domini' is a short piece, consisting of only two movements. The first movement is a setting of the text "Angelus Domini nuntiavit Mariae" (The Angel of the Lord declared unto Mary), which is the opening line of the Angelus prayer. The second movement is a setting of the text "Et verbum caro factum est" (And the Word was made flesh), which is the next line of the prayer. The first movement of the 'Angelus Domini' is characterized by its gentle, flowing melody and its rich harmonies. The choir sings in a homophonic style, with all four parts moving together in a smooth, unified manner. The piece is marked by a sense of reverence and awe, as the choir sings the words of the angelic announcement to Mary. The second movement of the 'Angelus Domini' is more complex than the first. It begins with a solo voice singing the text "Et verbum caro factum est," which is then echoed by the rest of the choir. The piece then moves into a polyphonic section, with each part weaving in and out of the others in a complex, intricate pattern. The harmonies are rich and full, and the piece builds to a powerful climax before resolving into a peaceful, serene conclusion. Overall, the 'Angelus Domini' is a beautiful example of Palestrina's skill as a composer. Its simple, yet elegant melodies and rich harmonies make it a timeless piece of sacred music that continues to be performed and enjoyed today.

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