Composer

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Thomas Tallis

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Keyboard

Average_duration

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0:41

'Natus est nobis' is a Christmas motet composed by Thomas Tallis, one of the most prominent English composers of the Renaissance period. The piece was likely composed in the 1560s, during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, and was likely first performed at the Chapel Royal in London. The motet is written for four voices (SATB) and is divided into three movements. The first movement is a joyful and celebratory setting of the text "Natus est nobis hodie Salvator mundi" (Today is born for us the Savior of the world). The second movement is a more contemplative setting of the text "Gloria in excelsis Deo" (Glory to God in the highest), featuring a beautiful and intricate polyphonic texture. The final movement returns to the joyful mood of the first, with a lively setting of the text "Et in terra pax hominibus" (And on earth peace to men). One of the most striking characteristics of 'Natus est nobis' is its use of imitative polyphony, a technique in which each voice enters in turn with the same or similar melody. This creates a rich and complex texture that is typical of Renaissance music. The piece also features a number of expressive dissonances, which were used to highlight important words or phrases in the text. Overall, 'Natus est nobis' is a beautiful and uplifting piece of music that captures the joy and wonder of the Christmas season. Its intricate polyphonic texture and expressive harmonies make it a masterpiece of Renaissance choral music, and it remains a beloved part of the Christmas choral repertoire to this day.

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