Composer

:

Jan Dismas Zelenka

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Mass

Compose Date

:

ca. 1740

Publication Date

:

1989

Average_duration

:

41:43

Jan Dismas Zelenka was a Czech composer who lived from 1679 to 1745. He was a contemporary of Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frideric Handel, and is considered one of the most important composers of the Baroque era. Zelenka was a prolific composer, and his works include operas, chamber music, and sacred music. One of his most famous works is the Missa Dei Filii in C major, ZWV 20. The Missa Dei Filii in C major was composed in 1729, and was premiered in Dresden, Germany. The work is a setting of the Catholic Mass, and is divided into six movements: Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, Benedictus, and Agnus Dei. The work is scored for four soloists (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass), choir, and orchestra. The Missa Dei Filii in C major is characterized by its rich harmonies, complex counterpoint, and expressive melodies. Zelenka was known for his use of chromaticism and dissonance, and these elements are present throughout the work. The opening Kyrie is a solemn and introspective movement, with the choir and soloists singing in unison. The Gloria is a joyful and exuberant movement, with the choir and soloists singing in harmony. The Credo is a complex and intricate movement, with the choir and soloists weaving in and out of each other's melodies. The Sanctus is a majestic and grand movement, with the choir and soloists singing in harmony. The Benedictus is a lyrical and expressive movement, with the soprano soloist singing a beautiful melody. The Agnus Dei is a somber and reflective movement, with the choir and soloists singing in unison. Overall, the Missa Dei Filii in C major is a masterpiece of Baroque sacred music. Zelenka's use of harmony, counterpoint, and melody create a work that is both complex and expressive. The work is a testament to Zelenka's skill as a composer, and is a must-hear for anyone interested in Baroque music.

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