Composer

:

Claudio Monteverdi

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

ca. 1582

Average_duration

:

3:04

Claudio Monteverdi's 'Quam pulchra es (from Sacrae cantiunculae), SV 212' is a sacred motet for five voices, composed in the early 17th century. The piece was first published in 1620 as part of Monteverdi's collection of sacred music, 'Sacrae cantiunculae', which was dedicated to Pope Paul V. The premiere of 'Quam pulchra es' is not recorded, but it is likely that it was performed in a church setting, as the piece is intended for liturgical use. The text of the motet is taken from the Song of Solomon, a book of the Old Testament, and celebrates the beauty of the beloved. The piece is divided into two movements, with the first movement featuring a solo soprano voice singing the opening phrase, "Quam pulchra es et quam decora", which is then echoed by the other voices. The music is characterized by its rich harmonies and expressive melodic lines, which convey the sensuousness of the text. The second movement is a lively and joyful setting of the text, "Veni, dilecte mi, egrediamur in agrum", which translates to "Come, my beloved, let us go forth into the fields". The music is marked by its rhythmic energy and lively counterpoint, which reflects the joy and exuberance of the text. Overall, 'Quam pulchra es' is a beautiful and expressive example of Monteverdi's sacred music, which combines rich harmonies, expressive melodies, and lively rhythms to create a powerful and moving musical experience.

More....