Composer

:

Alfonso X (el Sabio)

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

3:46

The Cantiga de Santa María 142, Ena gran coita sempr' acorrer ven', was composed by Alfonso X (el Sabio) in the 13th century. It is a part of a collection of 420 songs known as the Cantigas de Santa María, which were written in Galician-Portuguese and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The Cantigas de Santa María are considered to be one of the most important collections of medieval music. The premiere of the Cantiga de Santa María 142 is unknown, but it is believed to have been performed in the royal court of Alfonso X. The song is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement begins with a solo voice singing the opening lines, "Ena gran coita sempr' acorrer ven / a Santa María, que nos pode ben" (In great distress we always come / to Santa María, who can help us). The melody is simple and repetitive, with a steady rhythm that creates a sense of urgency. The lyrics describe the speaker's desperation and their plea for help from the Virgin Mary. The second movement features a chorus of voices that join in with the soloist, singing "Ella é a que nos pode salvar / e a que nos pode ben fazer" (She is the one who can save us / and do us good). The melody becomes more complex, with harmonies and counterpoint that add depth and richness to the music. The lyrics continue to praise the Virgin Mary and her ability to help those in need. The third movement returns to the solo voice, which sings "E por esto, Madre, a ti ven / e a ti me quero encomendar" (And for this reason, Mother, I come to you / and I want to entrust myself to you). The melody is simpler than the second movement, but still has a sense of resolution and peace. The lyrics express the speaker's trust in the Virgin Mary and their belief that she will help them. Overall, the Cantiga de Santa María 142 is a beautiful example of medieval music. Its simple melodies and repetitive rhythms create a sense of urgency and desperation, while the harmonies and counterpoint add depth and richness to the music. The lyrics express the speaker's faith in the Virgin Mary and their belief that she can help them in their time of need.

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