Composer

:

Marc-Antoine Charpentier

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1680

Average_duration

:

2:06

"Eram quasi agnus, cinquième répons après la deuxième leçon du second nocturne, H. 115" is a sacred choral work composed by Marc-Antoine Charpentier. It was composed in the late 17th century, during the Baroque period, and premiered in Paris, France. The work is part of Charpentier's larger collection of sacred music, which includes numerous motets, oratorios, and other choral works. "Eram quasi agnus" is a particularly notable example of Charpentier's style, which is characterized by its intricate counterpoint, rich harmonies, and expressive use of text painting. The work is divided into several movements, each of which is based on a different section of the text. The first movement begins with a solo voice singing the opening lines of the text, "I was like a lamb led to the slaughter." This is followed by a choral response, which repeats the same text in a more elaborate and ornate manner. The second movement features a more complex choral texture, with multiple voices weaving in and out of each other in a series of intricate counterpoint. The text of this movement focuses on the idea of being "oppressed and afflicted," and the music reflects this with its dark, brooding harmonies and dissonant clashes. The third movement is a brief interlude, featuring a solo voice singing a simple, plaintive melody. This is followed by the fourth movement, which returns to the more complex choral texture of the second movement. The text of this movement focuses on the idea of being "cut off from the land of the living," and the music reflects this with its mournful, dirge-like quality. The final movement is a brief coda, featuring a solo voice singing the final lines of the text, "But he was wounded for our transgressions." This is followed by a final choral response, which repeats the same text in a more triumphant and joyful manner. Overall, "Eram quasi agnus" is a powerful and moving work that showcases Charpentier's skill as a composer of sacred music. Its intricate counterpoint, rich harmonies, and expressive use of text painting make it a standout example of Baroque choral music.

More....