Composer

:

Domenico Scarlatti

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

1714

Average_duration

:

25:52

Movement_count

:

10

Movement ....

Domenico Scarlatti's Stabat Mater in C minor is a sacred choral work that was composed in the early 18th century. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written during Scarlatti's time in Rome, where he served as the maestro di cappella at the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. The Stabat Mater is a musical setting of a 13th-century Latin hymn that describes the sorrow of Mary, the mother of Jesus, as she stands at the foot of the cross during the crucifixion. Scarlatti's setting is divided into ten movements, each of which reflects a different aspect of Mary's grief. The first movement, "Stabat Mater dolorosa," sets the tone for the entire work with its mournful melody and somber harmonies. The second movement, "Cuius animam gementem," features a solo soprano voice that expresses Mary's anguish in a plaintive aria. The third movement, "O quam tristis et afflicta," is a duet for soprano and alto that laments the suffering of both Mary and her son. The fourth movement, "Quae moerebat et dolebat," is a solo for alto that describes Mary's sorrow as she watches her son die. The fifth movement, "Quis est homo qui non fleret," is a chorus that asks who among us could witness such a scene without shedding tears. The sixth movement, "Vidit suum dulcem natum," is a duet for soprano and tenor that describes Mary's love for her son, even in death. The seventh movement, "Eia Mater, fons amoris," is a chorus that implores Mary to intercede on behalf of sinners. The eighth movement, "Sancta Mater, istud agas," is a solo for bass that asks Mary to pray for us in our time of need. The ninth movement, "Fac ut ardeat cor meum," is a chorus that asks God to inflame our hearts with love for Him. The final movement, "Amen," is a simple prayer of supplication that brings the work to a close. Scarlatti's Stabat Mater is characterized by its expressive melodies, rich harmonies, and sensitive treatment of the text. The work is a testament to Scarlatti's skill as a composer and his deep faith as a Catholic. It remains a beloved piece of sacred music to this day, and is frequently performed in churches and concert halls around the world.

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