Composer

:

Spanish Anonymous

Genre

:

Vocal

Average_duration

:

5:23

The Cantigas de Santa Maria is a collection of over 400 songs composed in the 13th century in the Galician-Portuguese language. The collection is attributed to King Alfonso X of Castile, who was known for his patronage of the arts and sciences. One of the most famous songs in the collection is "Como Deus / A que avondou," which is a hymn to the Virgin Mary. The exact date of composition of "Como Deus / A que avondou" is unknown, but it is believed to have been written in the mid-13th century. The song was likely composed for use in religious ceremonies and was performed by a choir or soloist accompanied by instruments such as the vielle or the lute. "Como Deus / A que avondou" is divided into two movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, "Como Deus," is a hymn of praise to the Virgin Mary. The lyrics describe Mary as a "rose without thorns" and a "lily among thorns," emphasizing her purity and beauty. The melody of the first movement is simple and repetitive, with a slow tempo and a gentle, flowing rhythm. The second movement, "A que avondou," is a more lively and upbeat song. The lyrics describe the joy and celebration that accompanies the Virgin Mary's arrival. The melody of the second movement is more complex than the first, with a faster tempo and a more intricate rhythm. The song features a call-and-response structure, with the choir or soloist singing a line and the instruments responding with a flourish. Overall, "Como Deus / A que avondou" is a beautiful and uplifting hymn that celebrates the Virgin Mary and her role in the Christian faith. The song's simple yet powerful melody and lyrics have made it a beloved piece of music for centuries, and it continues to be performed and enjoyed by audiences around the world.

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