Composer

:

Robert Parsons

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

3:00

Robert Parsons was an English composer who lived from 1535 to 1572. He was a member of the Chapel Royal and composed music for the Anglican Church during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. One of his most famous works is the motet "Credo quod Redemptor," which was composed in the late 1560s. The motet "Credo quod Redemptor" is a setting of the Nicene Creed, which is a statement of Christian faith. The motet is written for five voices (SSATB) and is in Latin. It is divided into six movements, each of which corresponds to a section of the Nicene Creed. The first movement is a homophonic setting of the opening phrase of the Creed, "Credo in unum Deum" (I believe in one God). The second movement is a polyphonic setting of the phrase "Et in unum Dominum Jesum Christum" (And in one Lord Jesus Christ). The third movement is a homophonic setting of the phrase "Et incarnatus est de Spiritu Sancto" (And was incarnate by the Holy Ghost). The fourth movement is a polyphonic setting of the phrase "Et resurrexit tertia die" (And on the third day he rose again). The fifth movement is a homophonic setting of the phrase "Et in Spiritum Sanctum" (And in the Holy Ghost). The final movement is a polyphonic setting of the closing phrase of the Creed, "Et expecto resurrectionem mortuorum" (And I look for the resurrection of the dead). The motet "Credo quod Redemptor" is characterized by its rich harmonies and expressive melodies. Parsons uses a variety of textures throughout the motet, alternating between homophonic and polyphonic sections. The motet also features frequent use of imitation, where one voice echoes the melody of another voice. The motet "Credo quod Redemptor" was likely premiered at the Chapel Royal during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. It remains a popular piece in the Anglican choral tradition and is often performed during church services and concerts.

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