Composer

:

John Dunstable

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

ca. 1410 - 1453

Average_duration

:

5:08

Regina celi, MB 38 is a sacred choral work composed by John Dunstable, a prominent English composer of the early 15th century. The piece is a setting of the Marian antiphon Regina celi, which is traditionally sung during the Easter season in the Catholic Church. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written in the early 1420s. The piece is written for four voices (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass) and is characterized by its smooth, flowing melodies and rich harmonies. Regina celi, MB 38 is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a different section of the antiphon. The first movement begins with a soaring soprano melody that is echoed by the other voices, creating a sense of joyful exaltation. The second movement is more subdued, with the alto and tenor voices taking the lead and the bass providing a steady foundation. The final movement returns to the exultant mood of the first, with all four voices joining together in a triumphant conclusion. One of the most notable characteristics of Regina celi, MB 38 is its use of harmonic thirds and sixths, which were a hallmark of Dunstable's style. These intervals create a sense of sweetness and warmth in the music, and were highly influential on later composers such as Josquin des Prez and Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina. Regina celi, MB 38 was likely performed in the chapel of the royal court, where Dunstable was employed as a musician. It remains a beloved piece of sacred choral music to this day, and is frequently performed by choirs around the world.

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