Composer

:

Orlande de Lassus

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Publication Date

:

1568

Average_duration

:

15:34

Orlande de Lassus, also known as Roland de Lassus, was a prominent composer of the late Renaissance period. He was born in Mons, Belgium in 1532 and spent most of his career in Munich, Germany, where he served as a court musician for the Duke of Bavaria. Lassus was a prolific composer, producing over 2,000 works in a variety of genres, including masses, motets, madrigals, and chansons. One of Lassus' most famous works is his Te Deum laudamus, M. vi (S. xix/24), which is a setting of the Te Deum hymn. The Te Deum is a hymn of praise and thanksgiving that is traditionally sung at the end of Matins or Morning Prayer in the Catholic Church. Lassus' setting of the Te Deum is a grand and majestic work that showcases his skill as a composer. The Te Deum laudamus, M. vi (S. xix/24) was composed in 1577 and premiered in Munich, Germany. The work is divided into six movements, each of which corresponds to a different section of the Te Deum hymn. The first movement, "Te Deum laudamus," is a grand and majestic opening that sets the tone for the rest of the work. The second movement, "Te ergo quaesumus," is a more subdued and introspective section that asks for God's mercy and protection. The third movement, "Aeterna fac," is a lively and energetic section that celebrates God's eternal glory. The fourth movement, "Pleni sunt caeli," is a joyful and exuberant section that praises God's majesty and power. The fifth movement, "Te gloriosus," is a more contemplative section that reflects on God's greatness and goodness. The final movement, "Tu ad liberandum," is a triumphant and celebratory section that thanks God for his salvation and protection. Overall, Lassus' Te Deum laudamus, M. vi (S. xix/24) is a masterful work that showcases his skill as a composer. The work is characterized by its grandeur, majesty, and joyful exuberance, and it remains a popular and beloved piece of music to this day.

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