Composer

:

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Offertory

Compose Date

:

before 1792

Average_duration

:

4:49

Sub tuum praesidium, K. 198 (Anh. C 3.08) is a sacred choral work composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in 1773. The piece is a setting of the Latin hymn "Sub tuum praesidium" (Under thy protection), which is one of the oldest known hymns to the Virgin Mary. The hymn is traditionally sung in times of distress or danger, and it is often used as a prayer for protection. Mozart's setting of the hymn is a short work, consisting of only one movement. The piece is scored for four-part choir and orchestra, and it has a duration of approximately three minutes. The text of the hymn is set in a simple, homophonic style, with the choir singing in unison for much of the piece. The orchestra provides a gentle accompaniment, with soft strings and a delicate flute melody. The piece begins with a brief instrumental introduction, which sets the mood for the hymn. The choir then enters, singing the first line of the text: "Sub tuum praesidium confugimus, sancta Dei Genitrix" (Under thy protection we seek refuge, holy Mother of God). The choir continues to sing the text in a straightforward manner, with occasional harmonies and brief instrumental interludes. One of the most striking features of Mozart's setting of the hymn is its simplicity. The composer avoids any unnecessary embellishments or flourishes, allowing the beauty of the text to shine through. The piece is also notable for its gentle, peaceful character, which reflects the hymn's message of comfort and protection. Sub tuum praesidium, K. 198 (Anh. C 3.08) was likely composed for use in the Salzburg Cathedral, where Mozart was employed as a court musician at the time. The piece was not published during Mozart's lifetime, and it remained relatively unknown until the 20th century. Today, it is considered one of Mozart's most beautiful and moving sacred works, and it is frequently performed in churches and concert halls around the world.

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