Composer

:

Hildegard von Bingen

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Antiphon

Compose Date

:

ca. 1140 - 1179

Average_duration

:

1:21

"Sed diabolus" is a sacred vocal composition composed by Hildegard von Bingen, a German Benedictine abbess, writer, composer, and philosopher of the 12th century. The piece is part of her collection of liturgical chants known as the "Symphonia armonie celestium revelationum" (Symphony of the Harmony of Celestial Revelations), which consists of 77 chants and hymns. The exact date of composition of "Sed diabolus" is unknown, but it is believed to have been written in the early 12th century. The piece was likely composed for use in the liturgy of the Benedictine convent of Rupertsberg, where Hildegard was abbess. "Sed diabolus" is a monophonic chant, meaning it is sung by a single voice without accompaniment. The piece is in the mode of Dorian, which gives it a haunting and melancholic quality. The text of the chant is in Latin and tells the story of the fall of Lucifer from heaven and his subsequent transformation into the devil. The piece is divided into three distinct sections or movements. The first movement begins with a solemn and mournful melody that sets the tone for the entire piece. The second movement is more dramatic and intense, with the melody rising and falling in a series of ascending and descending phrases. The final movement returns to the mournful melody of the first, bringing the piece to a somber and contemplative close. One of the most striking characteristics of "Sed diabolus" is its use of dissonance. Hildegard employs a number of dissonant intervals, such as the tritone, to create a sense of tension and unease in the listener. This use of dissonance was highly unusual for the time and demonstrates Hildegard's innovative approach to composition. Overall, "Sed diabolus" is a powerful and evocative piece of sacred music that showcases Hildegard von Bingen's unique musical style and her deep spiritual and philosophical insights.

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