Composer

:

Orlande de Lassus

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Publication Date

:

1564

Average_duration

:

4:46

"Timor et tremor, M. iii (S. xix/6)" is a sacred choral work composed by Orlande de Lassus, a prominent composer of the Renaissance period. The piece was composed in the late 16th century and premiered in Munich, Germany, where Lassus was employed as a court musician. The work is divided into six movements, each of which is based on a different text from the Bible. The first movement, "Timor et tremor," is a setting of Psalm 55:5, which speaks of the fear and trembling that the psalmist experiences in the face of his enemies. The second movement, "Miserere mei," is a setting of Psalm 51:1, which is a prayer for mercy and forgiveness. The third movement, "Domine, exaudi orationem meam," is a setting of Psalm 102:1, which is a plea for God to hear the psalmist's prayer. The fourth movement, "De profundis clamavi," is a setting of Psalm 130:1, which is a cry for help from the depths of despair. The fifth movement, "Ave verum corpus," is a setting of a Eucharistic hymn that celebrates the real presence of Christ in the sacrament of the Eucharist. The final movement, "In manus tuas," is a setting of Luke 23:46, which is the last words of Jesus on the cross. The characteristics of "Timor et tremor" reflect the style of Renaissance sacred music. The work is written for a four-part choir, with each voice part having its own melodic line. The music is characterized by smooth, flowing melodies, rich harmonies, and a sense of balance and proportion. The text is set in a clear and expressive manner, with the music serving to enhance the meaning of the words. The work is also notable for its use of word painting, where the music reflects the meaning of the text. For example, in the first movement, the music becomes more agitated and dissonant as the psalmist speaks of his enemies. Overall, "Timor et tremor" is a powerful and moving work that reflects the deep religious faith of its composer and the Renaissance period in which it was written.

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