Composer

:

Robert White

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

3:35

Regina Coeli for chorus is a sacred choral work composed by Robert White, an English composer of the Renaissance period. The piece was composed in the late 16th century, around the year 1575. It is a four-part choral work that is typically performed a cappella, without instrumental accompaniment. The piece is divided into four movements, each of which is based on a different section of the Regina Coeli, a Marian antiphon that is traditionally sung during the Easter season. The first movement is a setting of the antiphon's opening lines, "Regina Coeli, laetare, alleluia" ("Queen of Heaven, rejoice, alleluia"). The second movement sets the next line, "Quia quem meruisti portare, alleluia" ("For he whom you were worthy to bear, alleluia"). The third movement sets the line "Resurrexit sicut dixit, alleluia" ("Has risen as he said, alleluia"), and the final movement sets the concluding line, "Ora pro nobis Deum, alleluia" ("Pray for us to God, alleluia"). The piece is characterized by its simple, yet elegant harmonies and its use of imitative polyphony. Each movement begins with a statement of the main theme, which is then passed between the different voices in a series of imitative entries. The result is a rich, layered texture that is both beautiful and expressive. Overall, Regina Coeli for chorus is a stunning example of Renaissance choral music. Its timeless beauty and spiritual depth continue to captivate audiences and inspire performers to this day.

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