Composer

:

Hilaire (Hylaire, Hilarius) Penet

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

3:55

'Virgo prudentissima' is a sacred choral work composed by Hilaire Penet, a French composer and organist, in the 17th century. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written in the early 1660s. The piece was premiered in the chapel of the Royal Convent of the Visitation in Paris, where Penet served as the organist. 'Virgo prudentissima' is a motet, a type of choral composition that is typically sung in Latin and is based on a sacred text. The piece is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a different text from the Bible. The first movement is based on the text from the Book of Wisdom, "Virgo prudentissima, quae nihil amittit de pretioso decoris sui" (O most prudent virgin, who loses nothing of her precious beauty). The second movement is based on the text from the Gospel of Luke, "Ave Maria, gratia plena, Dominus tecum" (Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee). The third movement is based on the text from the Book of Revelation, "Et signum magnum apparuit in caelo, mulier amicta sole" (And a great sign appeared in heaven, a woman clothed with the sun). The characteristics of 'Virgo prudentissima' reflect the style of sacred choral music that was popular in France in the 17th century. The piece is written for four-part choir, with each voice part having its own distinct melody and rhythm. The harmonies are rich and complex, with frequent use of suspensions and dissonances to create tension and release. The text is set in a highly expressive manner, with the music reflecting the meaning of the words. The piece is also notable for its use of word painting, where the music imitates the meaning of the text. For example, in the second movement, the word "gratia" (grace) is set to a flowing, graceful melody. Overall, 'Virgo prudentissima' is a beautiful and expressive example of sacred choral music from the Baroque era. Its rich harmonies, expressive melodies, and use of word painting make it a masterpiece of the genre.

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