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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4:40

"Commovisti Domine, terram" is a Gregorian chant that is sung on Sexagesima Sunday, which is the second Sunday before Lent. The chant is a part of the Proper of the Mass, which means that it is specific to this particular Sunday and cannot be used on any other day. The chant is believed to have been composed in the 8th century, although its exact origins are unknown. It is a part of the Gradual, which is a collection of chants that are sung during the Mass. The chant is divided into two movements, which are known as the Introit and the Gradual. The Introit is the first movement of the chant and is sung at the beginning of the Mass. It begins with the words "Commovisti Domine, terram, et conturbasti eam" which means "You have shaken the earth, O Lord, and have troubled it." The chant is sung in a solemn and mournful tone, reflecting the penitential nature of the season of Lent. The Gradual is the second movement of the chant and is sung after the Epistle. It begins with the words "Exaltabo te, Domine, quoniam suscepisti me" which means "I will praise you, O Lord, for you have upheld me." The chant is sung in a more joyful and celebratory tone, reflecting the hope and promise of salvation that is offered during the season of Lent. The characteristics of the chant are typical of Gregorian chant, which is characterized by its monophonic texture, free rhythm, and use of modes. The chant is sung in Latin, which was the language of the Roman Catholic Church at the time of its composition. Overall, "Commovisti Domine, terram" is a beautiful and powerful chant that is an important part of the liturgy of Sexagesima Sunday. Its solemn and mournful tone reflects the penitential nature of the season of Lent, while its joyful and celebratory tone reflects the hope and promise of salvation that is offered during this time.

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