Composer

:

Tomás Luis de Victoria

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1576

Average_duration

:

5:00

'Ardens est cor meum' is a sacred motet composed by the Spanish composer Tomás Luis de Victoria. It was composed in the late 16th century and was first performed in 1585. The motet is written for four voices, with the text taken from the Song of Solomon in the Bible. The motet is divided into three movements, with the first and third movements being in a fast tempo and the second movement being in a slower tempo. The first movement begins with a lively and rhythmic section, with the voices singing in a homophonic texture. The second section of the movement features imitative polyphony, with the voices weaving in and out of each other in a complex and intricate manner. The movement ends with a return to the lively and rhythmic opening section. The second movement is a more contemplative and introspective section, with the voices singing in a more subdued and restrained manner. The harmonies are more dissonant and complex, reflecting the emotional intensity of the text. The third movement returns to the lively and rhythmic style of the first movement, with the voices singing in a homophonic texture. The movement features a number of musical devices, including syncopation and imitation, which add to the overall sense of energy and excitement. Overall, 'Ardens est cor meum' is a masterful example of Victoria's skill as a composer. The motet showcases his ability to create complex and intricate polyphony, while also demonstrating his sensitivity to the emotional content of the text. The work is a testament to Victoria's status as one of the greatest composers of the Renaissance period.

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