Composer

:

Richard Dering

Genre

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

2:45

"Contristatus est David & lute" is a sacred vocal work composed by Richard Dering, a prominent English composer of the early Baroque era. The piece was composed in the early 17th century and is believed to have been premiered in England during Dering's lifetime. The work is written for four voices and lute accompaniment, and is divided into three movements. The first movement is a mournful setting of the Latin text "Contristatus est David," which tells the story of King David's grief over the death of his son Absalom. The second movement is a lively and rhythmic setting of the text "Exsultate justi in Domino," which celebrates the joy of the righteous in the Lord. The final movement returns to the mournful mood of the first, with a setting of the text "Quomodo obscuratum est aurum," which laments the darkness that has fallen over the gold of the temple. The characteristics of "Contristatus est David & lute" reflect the style of early Baroque music, with its emphasis on expressive melody and harmony, and its use of contrasting textures and dynamics. The mournful first and third movements are characterized by rich harmonies and expressive melodic lines, while the lively second movement features rhythmic energy and a more homophonic texture. The lute accompaniment adds a distinctive color and texture to the work, with its delicate arpeggios and intricate figurations. Overall, "Contristatus est David & lute" is a powerful and emotionally charged work that showcases Dering's skill as a composer of sacred music. Its combination of mournful and joyful elements, and its use of expressive melody and harmony, make it a compelling example of early Baroque vocal music.

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