Composer

:

Orlande de Lassus

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Publication Date

:

1594

Average_duration

:

4:17

'Ad Dominum cum tribularer, M. xvi (S. xvii/49)' is a sacred motet composed by Orlande de Lassus, a prominent composer of the late Renaissance period. The piece was composed in the mid-16th century, and its premiere date is unknown. The motet is written for four voices, and it is divided into three movements. The first movement is in a homophonic style, with all four voices singing together in harmony. The second movement is a duet between the alto and tenor voices, while the soprano and bass voices provide a simple harmonic accompaniment. The final movement returns to a homophonic style, with all four voices singing together once again. The text of the motet is taken from Psalm 120, which is a prayer for deliverance from affliction. The text is in Latin, and it is divided into three sections, each corresponding to one of the three movements of the motet. The first section expresses the psalmist's distress and his plea for help from the Lord. The second section expresses the psalmist's confidence in the Lord's protection, and his assurance that he will be delivered from his affliction. The final section is a prayer for peace and prosperity, both for the psalmist and for the people of Israel. The characteristics of 'Ad Dominum cum tribularer' reflect Lassus's mastery of the polyphonic style of the late Renaissance period. The piece is characterized by its smooth and flowing melodic lines, its rich and complex harmonies, and its careful attention to the text and its meaning. Lassus's use of homophonic and polyphonic textures, as well as his skillful handling of the four voices, create a sense of unity and coherence throughout the piece. Overall, 'Ad Dominum cum tribularer' is a beautiful and expressive example of Lassus's sacred music, and it remains a beloved piece in the choral repertoire to this day.

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