Composer

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Gregorian Chant

Genre

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Choral

Style

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Chant

Average_duration

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1:41

Videns Dominus is a Gregorian chant that was composed in the 9th century. It is a part of the liturgy of the Roman Catholic Church and is sung during the Mass on the Feast of the Holy Innocents, which is celebrated on December 28th. The chant is also known as the "Massacre of the Innocents" and is based on the Gospel of Matthew, which tells the story of King Herod's order to kill all male infants in Bethlehem in an attempt to eliminate the newborn Jesus. The chant is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is a recitative that sets the scene for the story. It begins with the words "Videns Dominus flentes matres" (The Lord saw weeping mothers) and is sung in a solemn and mournful tone. The melody is simple and repetitive, with a descending pattern that emphasizes the sadness of the situation. The second movement is a melismatic chant that describes the massacre itself. It begins with the words "A voice was heard in Rama" and is sung in a more dramatic and intense style. The melody is more complex, with long melodic phrases that rise and fall in a series of intricate patterns. The text is sung in a heightened emotional state, with the singers expressing the horror and grief of the mothers whose children have been killed. The third movement is a simple and peaceful chant that offers hope and comfort to those who have suffered. It begins with the words "Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domine" (Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord) and is sung in a gentle and soothing tone. The melody is simple and repetitive, with a rising and falling pattern that suggests a sense of calm and serenity. The text is a prayer for the souls of the innocent children who have been killed, asking for God's mercy and forgiveness. Overall, Videns Dominus is a powerful and emotional chant that captures the tragedy of the Holy Innocents. Its three movements offer a range of emotions, from sadness and grief to hope and comfort, and its simple yet beautiful melodies have made it a beloved part of the Catholic liturgy for centuries.

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