Composer

:

Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

1584

Average_duration

:

5:07

'Ad Dominum cum tribularer' is a motet composed by Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, one of the most prominent composers of the Renaissance period. The motet is part of his second book of motets for four voices, which was published in 1572. The motet is written in Latin and is based on Psalm 120, which is a prayer for deliverance from enemies. The text is divided into three sections, each with its own musical theme. The first section is characterized by a sense of urgency and desperation, with the voices rising and falling in a series of dramatic gestures. The second section is more contemplative, with the voices weaving together in a gentle, flowing melody. The final section returns to the urgency of the opening, with the voices rising to a climax before resolving in a peaceful, prayerful conclusion. The motet is scored for four voices, with two soprano parts, an alto, and a bass. Palestrina's use of polyphony is particularly notable in this piece, with each voice weaving in and out of the others in a complex web of harmonies. The motet is also notable for its use of dissonance, which Palestrina employs to create tension and drama. 'Ad Dominum cum tribularer' premiered in the late 16th century, likely in a church setting. It quickly became one of Palestrina's most popular works, and remains a staple of the choral repertoire to this day. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Palestrina's skill as a composer, and to the timeless beauty of his music.

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