Composer

:

Thomas Tallis

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

ca. 1540 - 1560

Average_duration

:

3:55

Audivi vocem, P. 90 is a motet composed by Thomas Tallis, a prominent English composer of the Renaissance period. The piece was composed in the 1570s, during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, and was likely written for use in the Chapel Royal, where Tallis served as a Gentleman of the Chapel. The motet is written for six voices, with two soprano, two alto, and two tenor parts. It is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a different text from the Bible. The first movement is based on the text from the Song of Solomon, "I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, 'Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord.'" The second movement is based on the text from the Book of Revelation, "They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat." The third movement is based on the text from the Gospel of John, "Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed." The motet is characterized by its rich harmonies and intricate polyphony. Tallis makes use of imitative counterpoint throughout the piece, with each voice taking turns presenting the main theme. The piece also features a number of expressive dissonances, which add to its emotional intensity. Overall, Audivi vocem, P. 90 is a powerful and moving work that showcases Tallis's skill as a composer. Its use of biblical texts and its complex polyphony make it a prime example of the English Renaissance motet.

More....