Composer

:

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Psalm

Average_duration

:

5:19

De profundis clamavi, K. 93 (Anh. A 22) is a sacred choral work composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in 1769. The piece is a setting of Psalm 130, which begins with the Latin phrase "De profundis clamavi ad te, Domine" (Out of the depths I have cried to you, O Lord). The work is scored for four-part choir, strings, and organ continuo. It is divided into three movements: 1. De profundis clamavi - The first movement is a setting of the first two verses of the psalm. It begins with a somber, mournful melody in the strings, which is then taken up by the choir. The music gradually builds in intensity as the choir repeats the phrase "De profundis" (out of the depths) several times. The movement ends with a quiet, prayerful section in which the choir sings "Et clamavi" (and I cried out) over a sustained chord in the strings. 2. Fiant aures tuae - The second movement is a setting of verses 3-4 of the psalm. It begins with a lively, dance-like melody in the strings, which is then taken up by the choir. The music alternates between joyful, celebratory sections and more introspective, prayerful sections. The movement ends with a return to the opening melody, which is sung by the choir in unison. 3. Sustinuit anima mea - The third movement is a setting of verses 5-6 of the psalm. It begins with a slow, mournful melody in the strings, which is then taken up by the choir. The music gradually builds in intensity as the choir sings "Sustinuit anima mea in verbo eius" (my soul has waited for his word). The movement ends with a quiet, prayerful section in which the choir sings "Speret Israel in Domino" (let Israel hope in the Lord) over a sustained chord in the strings. Overall, De profundis clamavi is a deeply expressive and emotional work that showcases Mozart's skill at setting sacred texts to music. The piece is notable for its use of contrasting musical textures and moods, as well as its sensitive treatment of the psalm's themes of sorrow, hope, and redemption. The work was likely composed for use in church services or other religious ceremonies, and it remains a popular choice for choral performances to this day.

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