Composer

:

Claudio Merulo

Genre

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

2:29

Claudio Merulo was an Italian composer and organist of the late Renaissance period. He was born in Correggio in 1533 and died in Parma in 1604. Merulo was a prolific composer, and his works include madrigals, motets, and instrumental music. One of his most famous works is the organ piece 'Tribus miraculis.' 'Tribus miraculis' was composed in 1598 and premiered in the same year. It is a set of variations on a Gregorian chant melody, 'Tribus miraculis ornatum,' which tells the story of the three miracles of St. Nicholas. The piece is divided into three movements, each of which corresponds to one of the miracles. The first movement is based on the miracle of the three boys who were killed by a wicked innkeeper and then resurrected by St. Nicholas. The music is lively and joyful, with fast runs and trills on the organ. The second movement is based on the miracle of the sailors who were saved from a storm by St. Nicholas. The music is more contemplative and introspective, with long, sustained chords and a slower tempo. The third movement is based on the miracle of the grain ship that was saved from sinking by St. Nicholas. The music is triumphant and celebratory, with fanfares and flourishes on the organ. The piece ends with a grand finale that brings together all the themes and motifs from the previous movements. 'Tribus miraculis' is a virtuosic piece that showcases the capabilities of the organ. It requires a skilled performer who can handle the complex rhythms, fast runs, and intricate ornamentation. The piece is also notable for its use of chromaticism, which was a relatively new technique at the time. Overall, 'Tribus miraculis' is a masterpiece of Renaissance organ music and a testament to Merulo's skill as a composer.

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