Composer

:

Johannes Cornago

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

2:49

Johannes Cornago was a Spanish composer who lived in the late 15th century. One of his most famous works is the motet "Morte merce, gentile aquill' altera," which was likely composed in the 1480s. The piece is written for four voices and is characterized by its intricate polyphony and expressive harmonies. The motet is believed to have been written in honor of the death of King Ferdinand I of Naples, who died in 1494. The text of the piece is in Latin and is a lament for the king's passing. The title of the motet translates to "Death, mercy, gentle eagle, another," which is a reference to the king's coat of arms, which featured an eagle. The motet is divided into three movements, each of which has its own distinct character. The first movement is slow and mournful, with the voices weaving in and out of each other in a complex web of polyphony. The second movement is faster and more rhythmic, with the voices imitating each other in a lively dance-like pattern. The final movement returns to the mournful character of the first, with the voices singing in a more homophonic style. One of the most striking features of the motet is its use of dissonance. Cornago employs a variety of dissonant chords and intervals throughout the piece, which creates a sense of tension and unease. However, he also resolves these dissonances in a way that is both satisfying and emotionally powerful. Overall, "Morte merce, gentile aquill' altera" is a masterful example of Renaissance polyphony. Its intricate harmonies and expressive melodies make it a powerful tribute to the memory of King Ferdinand I of Naples.

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