Composer

:

Orlande de Lassus

Genre

:

Choral

Publication Date

:

1564

Average_duration

:

4:26

Movement_count

:

2

Movement ....

Orlande de Lassus was a prominent composer of the Renaissance period, known for his sacred and secular works. One of his most famous compositions is 'O mors quam amara', S. xv/67, a motet for five voices. The piece was composed in the late 16th century, during Lassus' time as Kapellmeister at the court of Duke Albrecht V of Bavaria. It was likely written for performance during Holy Week, as it is a lamentation on the death of Christ. The motet is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is slow and mournful, with the voices singing in homophonic harmony. The second movement is more lively, with the voices weaving in and out of each other in intricate polyphony. The final movement returns to the mournful character of the first, with the voices singing in unison. The text of the motet is taken from the Book of Lamentations, and speaks of the bitterness of death and the sorrow of those left behind. Lassus' setting of the text is masterful, with the music perfectly capturing the emotions of the words. Overall, 'O mors quam amara' is a stunning example of Lassus' skill as a composer. Its beautiful harmonies and intricate polyphony make it a masterpiece of Renaissance music, and its emotional depth and power make it a moving tribute to the death of Christ.

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