Composer

:

Giovanni Gabrieli

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Average_duration

:

7:22

'Hic est filius Dei' is a sacred motet composed by Giovanni Gabrieli, an Italian composer and organist of the late Renaissance and early Baroque periods. The piece was composed in the late 16th century and premiered in Venice, Italy. The motet is written for eight voices, divided into two choirs, and is in the key of C major. It is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is marked "Allegro" and is characterized by its lively and energetic tempo. The two choirs alternate in singing the text, with the first choir singing "Hic est filius Dei" (Here is the Son of God) and the second choir responding with "Ecce agnus Dei" (Behold the Lamb of God). The movement is characterized by its use of antiphonal writing, with the two choirs echoing each other's phrases. The second movement is marked "Adagio" and is much slower in tempo than the first. It is a more contemplative and introspective movement, with the two choirs singing together in harmony. The text is taken from the Gospel of John and speaks of the testimony of John the Baptist regarding Jesus Christ. The final movement is marked "Allegro" and is similar in tempo and character to the first movement. It features a lively and joyful setting of the text "Gloria Patri et Filio et Spiritui Sancto" (Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit). The two choirs sing together in harmony, with occasional moments of antiphonal writing. Overall, 'Hic est filius Dei' is a beautiful and expressive motet that showcases Gabrieli's skill in writing for multiple voices and his ability to create a sense of drama and emotion through his music. Its use of antiphonal writing and contrasting tempos and moods make it a dynamic and engaging piece that is still performed and enjoyed today.

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