Composer

:

Jehan Titelouze

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1623

Average_duration

:

7:17

Jehan Titelouze was a French composer and organist who lived from 1563 to 1633. He is considered one of the most important composers of organ music in the early Baroque period. One of his most famous works is the "Exultet Coelum," a hymn for the Feast of the Ascension. The "Exultet Coelum" was composed in the early 17th century and was first performed in Rouen, France. It is a hymn of praise to Christ, who has ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God. The text of the hymn is taken from the Roman Breviary, a collection of prayers and hymns used by the Catholic Church. The "Exultet Coelum" is divided into three movements. The first movement is a lively and joyful fanfare, with the organ playing a series of ascending and descending scales. This movement represents the ascent of Christ into heaven and the rejoicing of the angels. The second movement is a slower and more contemplative section, with the organ playing a series of chords and the choir singing a hymn of praise to Christ. This movement represents the adoration of Christ by the faithful. The third movement is a return to the lively and joyful fanfare of the first movement, with the organ playing a series of ascending and descending scales and the choir singing a hymn of praise to Christ. This movement represents the return of Christ to earth at the end of time. The "Exultet Coelum" is characterized by its use of the organ, which is given a prominent role in the composition. Titelouze was known for his skill as an organist, and he wrote many pieces for the instrument. The "Exultet Coelum" is a prime example of his use of the organ to create a grand and majestic sound. Overall, the "Exultet Coelum" is a powerful and uplifting hymn that celebrates the ascension of Christ into heaven. Its use of the organ and its three distinct movements make it a masterpiece of early Baroque music.

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