Composer

:

Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Song

Publication Date

:

1619

Average_duration

:

2:17

Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck was a Dutch composer and organist of the late Renaissance and early Baroque periods. He was born in Deventer, Netherlands in 1562 and died in Amsterdam in 1621. Sweelinck was one of the most important composers of his time and his music had a significant influence on the development of Baroque music. 'Viri Galilei, quid statis aspicientes in coelum' is a sacred motet composed by Sweelinck. It is part of his collection of sacred music called 'Cantiones Sacrae No. 26'. The motet was composed in 1619 and was premiered in the same year in Amsterdam. The motet is divided into three movements. The first movement is a homophonic setting of the text 'Viri Galilei, quid statis aspicientes in coelum'. The second movement is a polyphonic setting of the text 'Hic Jesus qui assumptus est a vobis in coelum, sic veniet quemadmodum vidistis eum euntem in coelum'. The third movement is a homophonic setting of the text 'Alleluia. Ascendit Deus in jubilatione, et Dominus in voce tubae'. The first movement begins with a fanfare-like introduction played by the organ. The choir then enters with a homophonic setting of the text. The music is characterized by its strong rhythms and clear harmonies. The second movement is a more complex polyphonic setting of the text. The music is characterized by its intricate counterpoint and use of imitation between the voices. The third movement is a joyful setting of the text 'Alleluia'. The music is characterized by its lively rhythms and use of repetition. Overall, 'Viri Galilei, quid statis aspicientes in coelum' is a beautiful example of Sweelinck's sacred music. The motet showcases his skill in both homophonic and polyphonic writing, as well as his ability to create music that is both joyful and contemplative.

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