Composer

:

Arianna Savall

Genre

:

Chamber

Average_duration

:

04:46

"Strela do dia" is a composition by Arianna Savall, a Catalan-Swiss musician and composer. The piece is based on two medieval songs from the Cantigas de Santa María, a collection of over 400 songs dedicated to the Virgin Mary, compiled by King Alfonso X of Castile in the 13th century. The two songs that inspired Savall's composition are "Santa Maria, strela do dia" (Santa Maria, star of the day) and "Ben pode Santa Maria" (Well can Santa Maria). Savall's composition was premiered in 2011 at the Festival de Música Antiga de Barcelona (Barcelona Early Music Festival). The piece is divided into three movements, each of which explores different aspects of the original songs. The first movement, "Santa Maria, strela do dia," is a gentle and contemplative piece that features Savall's ethereal vocals accompanied by a harp and a viola da gamba. The melody of the original song is woven into the composition, but Savall also adds her own improvisations and embellishments. The second movement, "Ben pode Santa Maria," is more rhythmic and lively, with a driving beat provided by percussion instruments such as the darbuka and the tambourine. Savall's vocals are more forceful in this movement, and she is joined by a chorus of singers who provide a rich and full-bodied sound. The final movement, "Strela do dia," brings together elements from both of the previous movements. The percussion instruments return, but the tempo is slower and more contemplative. Savall's vocals are once again accompanied by the harp and viola da gamba, and the melody of "Santa Maria, strela do dia" is heard once again. Overall, "Strela do dia" is a beautiful and haunting composition that pays homage to the medieval songs that inspired it while also showcasing Savall's own unique musical vision. The piece is characterized by its ethereal vocals, intricate instrumentation, and a sense of reverence and spirituality that is in keeping with the original Cantigas de Santa María.

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