Composer

:

Orlande de Lassus

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Chanson

Publication Date

:

1567

Average_duration

:

4:39

'Susanne un jour' is a chanson for 5 voices composed by Orlande de Lassus, a prominent composer of the late Renaissance period. The piece was composed in the mid-16th century, around 1555-1560, and was premiered in the court of Duke Albrecht V of Bavaria, where Lassus was employed as a court musician. The chanson is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and musical style. The first movement is a lively and rhythmic setting of the text, which tells the story of Susanna and the elders from the biblical book of Daniel. The second movement is a more contemplative and expressive setting of the text, with a slower tempo and more complex harmonies. The third movement returns to the lively and rhythmic style of the first, bringing the piece to a joyful and celebratory conclusion. One of the most notable characteristics of 'Susanne un jour' is its use of word painting, a technique in which the music reflects the meaning of the text. For example, in the first movement, the music becomes more agitated and dissonant as the elders become more aggressive in their pursuit of Susanna. In the second movement, the music becomes more harmonically complex and expressive as Susanna reflects on her situation and prays for deliverance. And in the third movement, the music becomes more joyful and celebratory as Susanna is vindicated and the elders are punished. Overall, 'Susanne un jour' is a masterful example of Renaissance choral music, showcasing Lassus's skill in both composition and text setting. Its lively rhythms, expressive harmonies, and use of word painting make it a memorable and engaging piece that continues to be performed and enjoyed by audiences today.

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