Composer

:

Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

1584

Average_duration

:

3:29

Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina's 'Alma Redemptoris mater' is a motet for four voices, which was composed in the late 16th century. The piece was first published in Palestrina's 'Motets Book II' in 1584. The motet is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is one of the four Marian antiphons that are sung during the liturgical year. The piece is divided into four movements, each of which is characterized by its own unique musical style. The first movement is a simple and elegant setting of the antiphon's text, with the four voices singing in unison. The second movement is a more complex and contrapuntal setting, with the voices weaving in and out of each other in a series of intricate harmonies. The third movement is a lively and joyful setting, with the voices dancing around each other in a playful and celebratory manner. The final movement is a solemn and reverent setting, with the voices coming together in a powerful and moving conclusion. Throughout the piece, Palestrina's characteristic style is on full display, with its emphasis on clear and transparent textures, smooth and flowing melodies, and a careful attention to the text and its meaning. The piece is a testament to Palestrina's mastery of the polyphonic style, and his ability to create music that is both beautiful and deeply spiritual.

More....