Composer

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John Redford

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Keyboard

Average_duration

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0:47

'Christe Qui Lux' is a sacred choral work composed by John Redford, an English composer and organist who lived during the Renaissance period. The piece was composed in the 16th century, although the exact date is unknown. It was likely composed during Redford's tenure as the Master of the Choristers at St. Paul's Cathedral in London, a position he held from 1531 until his death in 1547. The piece is written for four voices, with the text being a hymn to Christ. It is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is a simple and straightforward setting of the hymn, with the four voices singing in unison. The second movement is more complex, with the voices weaving in and out of each other in a contrapuntal texture. The third movement returns to the simplicity of the first, with the voices once again singing in unison. One of the most notable characteristics of 'Christe Qui Lux' is its use of imitation. This is particularly evident in the second movement, where the voices imitate each other in a complex and intricate pattern. The piece also features a number of melodic and harmonic devices that were common in Renaissance music, such as suspensions, dissonances, and cadences. 'Christe Qui Lux' was likely first performed at St. Paul's Cathedral during Redford's tenure as Master of the Choristers. It has since become a popular piece in the choral repertoire, and is often performed by choirs around the world. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Redford's skill as a composer, and to the enduring power of sacred choral music.

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