Composer

:

Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

1584

Average_duration

:

3:37

Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina's 'Sicut cervus' is a motet for four voices, which was composed in the late 16th century. The piece was first published in Palestrina's second book of motets, which was printed in 1572. The motet is written in Latin and is based on Psalm 42:1-2, which reads, "As the deer longs for running streams, so my soul longs for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, the living God. When can I enter and see the face of God?" The motet is divided into three movements, with the first and third movements being in duple meter and the second movement being in triple meter. The first movement begins with a homophonic texture, with all four voices singing the same melody in unison. The melody is then passed between the voices, creating a polyphonic texture. The second movement is more complex, with the voices weaving in and out of each other in a triple meter. The third movement returns to the homophonic texture of the first movement, with the voices singing in unison once again. The characteristics of 'Sicut cervus' are typical of Palestrina's style. The piece is characterized by its smooth, flowing melodies, which are often based on Gregorian chant. The harmonies are simple and consonant, with a focus on the perfect intervals of the fourth, fifth, and octave. The piece is also characterized by its use of imitation, with the voices echoing each other's melodies and rhythms. The overall effect is one of serenity and contemplation, reflecting the text of the psalm on which the motet is based. 'Sicut cervus' has remained a popular piece in the choral repertoire, and it is often performed in church services and concerts. Its timeless beauty and simplicity continue to captivate audiences and inspire composers to this day.

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