Composer

:

Orlande de Lassus

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Publication Date

:

1562

Average_duration

:

3:23

Orlande de Lassus was a prominent composer of the Renaissance period, known for his sacred music. One of his most famous works is "Surgens Jesus, M. ii (S. v/60)," which was composed in the late 16th century. The piece is a motet, which is a type of sacred choral music that was popular during the Renaissance. It was written for four voices, with two sopranos, alto, and bass. The text is in Latin and is based on a passage from the Gospel of Mark, which describes the resurrection of Jesus. "Surgens Jesus" is divided into three movements. The first movement begins with a lively and energetic section, with the voices singing in unison. This section is followed by a more complex and polyphonic section, with the voices weaving in and out of each other. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, but with more elaborate harmonies and counterpoint. The second movement is slower and more contemplative, with the voices singing in a more homophonic style. The text of this section focuses on the joy and wonder of the resurrection, and the music reflects this with its gentle and uplifting melodies. The final movement is the most complex and elaborate of the three. It begins with a lively and rhythmic section, with the voices singing in a complex and intricate counterpoint. This section is followed by a slower and more contemplative section, with the voices singing in a more homophonic style. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, but with even more elaborate harmonies and counterpoint. Overall, "Surgens Jesus" is a beautiful and complex piece of music that showcases Lassus's skill as a composer. Its intricate harmonies and counterpoint, combined with its uplifting and joyful melodies, make it a masterpiece of Renaissance sacred music. The piece premiered in the late 16th century and has remained popular among choral groups and audiences ever since.

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