Composer

:

Francisco Guerrero

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1585

Average_duration

:

4:04

'Pastores loquebantur' is a Christmas motet composed by Francisco Guerrero, a Spanish composer of the Renaissance period. The piece was composed in the late 16th century and was premiered in Seville, Spain. It is a four-voice motet that tells the story of the shepherds who were visited by the angels and told of the birth of Jesus. The motet is divided into three movements. The first movement begins with a solo voice singing the words "Pastores loquebantur" (the shepherds were speaking) and is followed by the other voices joining in. The music is joyful and celebratory, reflecting the excitement of the shepherds upon hearing the news of the birth of Jesus. The second movement is more contemplative and reflective. The music slows down and becomes more somber as the shepherds reflect on the message they have received from the angels. The voices sing in a more subdued manner, reflecting the solemnity of the moment. The third movement is a return to the joyful celebration of the first movement. The music becomes more lively and upbeat as the shepherds go to see the baby Jesus. The voices sing in a more energetic and enthusiastic manner, reflecting the excitement of the shepherds as they approach the manger. Overall, 'Pastores loquebantur' is a beautiful and expressive piece of music that captures the spirit of Christmas. The music is characterized by its joyful and celebratory nature, as well as its contemplative and reflective moments. Guerrero's use of four voices creates a rich and complex sound that is both beautiful and moving.

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