Composer

:

Antonio Vivaldi

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

before 1742

Average_duration

:

18:20

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

"Sum in medio tempestatum" (I am in the midst of the storm) is a sacred vocal work composed by Antonio Vivaldi in the early 18th century. The piece is a motet for solo voice, strings, and continuo, and is based on a text from the Book of Job in the Old Testament. The composition is believed to have been written around 1710, during Vivaldi's time as maestro di violino at the Ospedale della Pietà in Venice. It was likely premiered at the Pietà, where Vivaldi was known for his innovative and expressive sacred music. "Sum in medio tempestatum" is divided into three movements. The first movement is a recitative, in which the solo voice (usually a soprano) introduces the text and sets the scene of the storm. The second movement is an aria, in which the soloist expresses their feelings of despair and fear in the midst of the tempest. The final movement is a joyful and triumphant aria, in which the soloist declares their faith in God and their confidence that they will be saved. The piece is characterized by Vivaldi's signature style, which combines virtuosic vocal writing with expressive and dramatic instrumental accompaniment. The stormy opening recitative is accompanied by agitated string figures, while the second aria features a mournful melody and chromatic harmonies that convey the soloist's sense of despair. The final aria is marked by lively rhythms and joyful melodies, as the soloist expresses their faith in God's protection. Overall, "Sum in medio tempestatum" is a powerful and emotional work that showcases Vivaldi's skill as a composer of sacred music. Its expressive vocal writing and dramatic instrumental accompaniment make it a standout example of Vivaldi's unique style.

More....