Composer

:

Orlande de Lassus

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Publication Date

:

1587

Average_duration

:

5:53

Orlande de Lassus, also known as Roland de Lassus, was a prominent composer of the late Renaissance period. He was born in Mons, Belgium in 1532 and spent most of his career in Munich, Germany, where he served as a court musician for the Duke of Bavaria. Lassus was a prolific composer, producing over 2,000 works in a variety of genres, including sacred and secular vocal music, instrumental music, and madrigals. One of Lassus' most famous works is "Susanne un jour," a setting of the Magnificat for six voices. The piece was composed in 1561 and premiered in Munich the same year. The Magnificat is a hymn of praise to the Virgin Mary, traditionally sung during vespers in the Catholic Church. Lassus' setting of the Magnificat is notable for its intricate polyphony and expressive harmonies. The piece is divided into nine movements, each corresponding to a different section of the Magnificat text. The first movement, "Susanne un jour," is a lively and rhythmic setting of the opening lines of the Magnificat. The second movement, "Et exultavit," is a joyful and exuberant setting of the text "And my spirit rejoices in God my Savior." The third movement, "Quia respexit," is a more subdued and introspective setting of the text "For he has looked upon the lowliness of his handmaid." The fourth movement, "Omnes generationes," is a complex and densely textured setting of the text "All generations shall call me blessed." The fifth movement, "Quia fecit mihi magna," is a bright and celebratory setting of the text "For he who is mighty has done great things for me." The sixth movement, "Et misericordia," is a tender and expressive setting of the text "And his mercy is on those who fear him." The seventh movement, "Fecit potentiam," is a powerful and majestic setting of the text "He has shown strength with his arm." The eighth movement, "Deposuit potentes," is a dramatic and intense setting of the text "He has brought down the mighty from their thrones." The final movement, "Esurientes implevit," is a joyful and triumphant setting of the text "He has filled the hungry with good things." Overall, "Susanne un jour" is a masterful example of Lassus' skill as a composer. Its intricate polyphony, expressive harmonies, and varied textures make it a rich and rewarding piece to listen to and perform.

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