Composer

:

Pierre de Manchicourt

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Average_duration

:

4:27

Regina cœli is a sacred choral work composed by Pierre de Manchicourt, a Franco-Flemish composer of the Renaissance era. The piece is a hymn to the Virgin Mary, and it is one of the most famous works of Manchicourt. The composition is written for four voices, and it is characterized by its rich harmonies and expressive melodies. The exact date of composition of Regina cœli is not known, but it is believed to have been written in the mid-16th century. The piece was likely composed for performance in a church or cathedral, as was typical of sacred choral music of the time. Regina cœli is divided into four movements, each of which is based on a different section of the hymn. The first movement is a joyful and celebratory setting of the opening lines of the hymn, "Regina cœli, laetare, alleluia" ("Queen of Heaven, rejoice, alleluia"). The second movement is a more contemplative setting of the next section of the hymn, "Quia quem meruisti portare, alleluia" ("For he whom you were worthy to bear, alleluia"). The third movement is a lively and energetic setting of the third section of the hymn, "Resurrexit sicut dixit, alleluia" ("He has risen as he said, alleluia"). This movement is characterized by its rhythmic vitality and its use of imitative counterpoint. The final movement is a grand and majestic setting of the closing lines of the hymn, "Ora pro nobis Deum, alleluia" ("Pray for us to God, alleluia"). This movement features rich harmonies and a soaring melody, and it brings the piece to a triumphant conclusion. Overall, Regina cœli is a beautiful and expressive work that showcases Manchicourt's skill as a composer of sacred choral music. Its rich harmonies, expressive melodies, and rhythmic vitality make it a beloved piece of music that is still performed and enjoyed today.

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