Composer

:

Marc-Antoine Charpentier

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1680

Average_duration

:

16:37

Première leçon de ténèbres du jeudi saint, H. 102 is a sacred vocal work composed by Marc-Antoine Charpentier in the 17th century. The piece was composed in 1680 and premiered in Paris, France. It is a part of a larger work called Tenebrae Responsories, which consists of nine lessons for the Holy Week. The piece is divided into three movements, each corresponding to one of the three lessons of the Holy Week. The first movement is a setting of the Lamentations of Jeremiah, which is a text traditionally used during the Holy Week. The second movement is a setting of Psalm 50, which is a penitential psalm. The third movement is a setting of the hymn "Vexilla Regis," which is a hymn traditionally sung during the Holy Week. The characteristics of the piece are typical of Charpentier's style, which is characterized by its expressive melodies, rich harmonies, and use of counterpoint. The piece is scored for two solo voices and continuo, which is a common instrumentation for sacred vocal music of the time. The use of solo voices allows for a more intimate and personal expression of the text, which is often reflective and contemplative. Overall, Première leçon de ténèbres du jeudi saint, H. 102 is a beautiful and moving work that captures the solemnity and introspection of the Holy Week. Its expressive melodies and rich harmonies make it a masterpiece of Baroque sacred vocal music.

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