Composer

:

Cristóbal de Morales

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1541

Average_duration

:

7:34

"Cum natus esset Jesus/At illi dixerunt/Et ecce stella" is a motet composed by Cristóbal de Morales, a Spanish composer of the Renaissance period. The piece is believed to have been composed in the mid-16th century, during Morales' time as a singer and composer in the Papal Chapel in Rome. The motet is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and musical style. The first movement, "Cum natus esset Jesus," is a joyful and celebratory piece that reflects the joy and wonder of the birth of Jesus. The second movement, "At illi dixerunt," is a more contemplative and introspective piece that reflects on the reactions of the wise men to the birth of Jesus. The final movement, "Et ecce stella," is a triumphant and exultant piece that celebrates the arrival of the wise men and the revelation of the star that led them to Jesus. The piece is characterized by its rich and complex harmonies, intricate counterpoint, and expressive use of text painting. Morales' use of chromaticism and dissonance creates a sense of tension and drama, while his use of imitative polyphony and homophonic textures creates a sense of unity and coherence. Overall, "Cum natus esset Jesus/At illi dixerunt/Et ecce stella" is a masterful example of Renaissance polyphony, showcasing Morales' skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both technically complex and emotionally expressive.

More....