Composer

:

Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

1584

Average_duration

:

3:59

Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina's 'Super flumina Babylonis' is a motet for four voices that was composed in the late 16th century. The piece was first published in Palestrina's second book of motets in 1572. The motet is based on Psalm 137, which describes the Israelites' lamentation during their captivity in Babylon. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is slow and mournful, with the voices singing in a homophonic texture. The second movement is faster and more rhythmic, with the voices imitating each other in a polyphonic texture. The third movement returns to the slow and mournful character of the first movement, with the voices singing in a homophonic texture once again. The piece is characterized by its use of dissonance and chromaticism, which were common features of Palestrina's style. The dissonances are carefully controlled and resolved, creating a sense of tension and release throughout the piece. The use of chromaticism adds a richness and complexity to the harmonies, creating a sense of depth and emotion. Overall, 'Super flumina Babylonis' is a powerful and moving piece of music that captures the sadness and longing of the Israelites during their captivity in Babylon. Palestrina's skillful use of harmony and texture creates a sense of depth and emotion that is still felt today, making this motet a timeless masterpiece of Renaissance music.

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