Composer

:

Michael Praetorius

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Magnificat

Average_duration

:

18:34

Michael Praetorius was a German composer, organist, and music theorist of the late Renaissance era. He was born in Creuzburg, Thuringia, in 1571 and died in Wolfenbüttel in 1621. Praetorius was one of the most prolific composers of his time, and his works include sacred and secular music, as well as music for the theater. One of Praetorius's most famous works is the "Magnificat per omnes versus super ut re mi fa sol la," which was composed in 1611. The piece is a setting of the Magnificat text, which is a hymn of praise to the Virgin Mary. The text is taken from the Gospel of Luke, and it is traditionally sung during the evening prayer service in the Catholic Church. The "Magnificat per omnes versus super ut re mi fa sol la" is a six-movement work that is scored for five voices (SSATB) and continuo. The movements are as follows: 1. Magnificat anima mea Dominum (My soul magnifies the Lord) 2. Et exultavit spiritus meus (And my spirit rejoices) 3. Quia respexit humilitatem ancillae suae (For he has regarded the lowliness of his handmaiden) 4. Quia fecit mihi magna qui potens est (For he who is mighty has done great things for me) 5. Et misericordia eius a progenie in progenies (And his mercy is on those who fear him from generation to generation) 6. Fecit potentiam in brachio suo (He has shown strength with his arm) The "Magnificat per omnes versus super ut re mi fa sol la" is characterized by its use of the solmization syllables (ut, re, mi, fa, sol, la) as the basis for the melodic material. Each movement is based on a different solmization syllable, and Praetorius uses this technique to create a sense of unity and coherence throughout the work. The piece is also notable for its use of polychoral techniques, which were popular in the late Renaissance era. Praetorius divides the choir into two groups, which sing in alternation throughout the work. This creates a sense of antiphonal dialogue between the two groups, and it also allows Praetorius to explore different sonorities and textures. The "Magnificat per omnes versus super ut re mi fa sol la" was premiered in 1611, and it quickly became one of Praetorius's most popular works. It has since been performed and recorded by many different ensembles, and it remains a beloved piece of choral music to this day.

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