Composer

:

Tomás Luis de Victoria

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

2:41

'Aestimatus sum' is a sacred motet composed by the Spanish composer Tomás Luis de Victoria. It was composed in the late 16th century, during the Renaissance period, and was first performed in the Chapel Royal of Madrid. The piece is written for four voices, with the text taken from Psalm 118: "I have been accounted as one who is in the tomb; I have become like a man without strength." The motet is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked "Lento" and is characterized by a mournful, introspective mood. The second movement is marked "Allegro" and is more lively and energetic, with a sense of urgency and desperation. The final movement is marked "Adagio" and returns to the mournful mood of the first movement, with a sense of resignation and acceptance. The piece is notable for its use of chromaticism, which was a relatively new technique at the time. Victoria uses chromaticism to create a sense of tension and dissonance, which is then resolved in a satisfying way. The piece also features a number of vocal techniques, such as imitative counterpoint and homophonic textures, which were common in Renaissance music. Overall, 'Aestimatus sum' is a powerful and emotional piece of music that reflects the religious and cultural context of its time. It is a testament to Victoria's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both technically complex and emotionally resonant.

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