Composer

:

Felice Anerio

Genre

:

Vocal

Average_duration

:

2:48

"Sotto l'ombroso speco" is a sacred choral work composed by Felice Anerio, an Italian composer of the late Renaissance and early Baroque periods. The piece was likely composed in the late 16th century, during Anerio's tenure as maestro di cappella at the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome. The work is written for four voices (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass) and is divided into three movements. The first movement is a slow and solemn setting of the text "Sotto l'ombroso speco," which translates to "Under the shady cave." The music is characterized by rich harmonies and a sense of reverence, reflecting the religious nature of the text. The second movement is a lively and rhythmic setting of the text "O sacrum convivium," which translates to "O sacred banquet." The music is marked by energetic rhythms and intricate counterpoint, reflecting the joyous nature of the text. The final movement is a slow and contemplative setting of the text "Ave verum corpus," which translates to "Hail, true body." The music is characterized by a sense of awe and wonder, reflecting the mystical nature of the text. Overall, "Sotto l'ombroso speco" is a beautiful and expressive work that showcases Anerio's skill as a composer. The piece is notable for its rich harmonies, intricate counterpoint, and sense of reverence and awe. It remains a beloved work in the sacred choral repertoire to this day.

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