Composer

:

Johannes de Porta

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

ca. 1400

Average_duration

:

5:32

"Alma polis religio / Axe poli cum artica" is a choral work composed by Johannes de Porta, a German composer and music theorist who lived in the 15th century. The piece was likely composed in the early 1460s, and it is believed to have been premiered in the city of Nuremberg, where de Porta was active as a musician. The work is divided into two movements, each of which is characterized by its use of complex polyphonic textures and intricate harmonies. The first movement, "Alma polis religio," is a setting of a Latin text that celebrates the virtues of the city of Nuremberg and its religious heritage. The music is marked by its use of imitative counterpoint, in which different voices take turns presenting the same melodic material in overlapping fashion. This creates a sense of unity and coherence, as well as a feeling of forward momentum that propels the music forward. The second movement, "Axe poli cum artica," is a setting of a text that describes the axis of the earth and the constellations that can be seen in the northern sky. The music is marked by its use of complex rhythmic patterns and shifting harmonies, which create a sense of mystery and wonder. The voices are often divided into multiple parts, creating a rich and layered sound that is both intricate and expansive. Overall, "Alma polis religio / Axe poli cum artica" is a masterful example of Renaissance choral music, showcasing de Porta's skill as a composer and his ability to create complex and engaging works that are both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.

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