Composer

:

Orazio Benevoli

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

4:24

Dixit Dominus is a sacred choral work composed by Orazio Benevoli, an Italian composer of the Baroque era. The piece was composed in the mid-17th century and premiered in Rome in 1668. It is a setting of Psalm 110, which begins with the words "Dixit Dominus" (The Lord said). The work is divided into ten movements, each of which is based on a different section of the psalm. The first movement is a grand opening chorus, featuring a full choir and orchestra. The second movement is a duet for two sopranos, accompanied by a continuo of bass and harpsichord. The third movement is a solo for alto, accompanied by a string quartet. The fourth movement is a trio for two sopranos and alto, accompanied by a continuo of bass and harpsichord. The fifth movement is a solo for bass, accompanied by a string quartet. The sixth movement is a duet for two sopranos, accompanied by a continuo of bass and harpsichord. The seventh movement is a solo for tenor, accompanied by a string quartet. The eighth movement is a trio for two sopranos and alto, accompanied by a continuo of bass and harpsichord. The ninth movement is a solo for bass, accompanied by a string quartet. The final movement is a grand chorus, featuring the full choir and orchestra. The characteristics of Dixit Dominus are typical of Baroque choral music. The work features a variety of vocal textures, including solos, duets, trios, and full choir. The orchestration is also varied, with different movements featuring different combinations of instruments. The work is characterized by its use of counterpoint, with different vocal lines weaving in and out of each other. The music is also highly expressive, with the text of the psalm being set to music in a way that emphasizes its meaning. Overall, Dixit Dominus is a masterful example of Baroque choral music, showcasing the talents of Orazio Benevoli as a composer. Its premiere in Rome in 1668 was a significant event in the musical history of the city, and the work continues to be performed and admired by audiences today.

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