Composer

:

Orlande de Lassus

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Publication Date

:

1564

Average_duration

:

3:45

Deficiat in dolore vita mea, M. xvi (S. xvii/22) is a sacred motet composed by Orlande de Lassus, a prominent composer of the late Renaissance period. The piece was composed in the mid-16th century and premiered in Munich, Germany, where Lassus was employed as a court musician. The motet is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and musical style. The first movement is a somber and mournful setting of the text "Deficiat in dolore vita mea" (My life is consumed with grief), which is taken from the Book of Job in the Old Testament. The music is characterized by slow, mournful melodies and rich harmonies, which convey the deep sadness and despair expressed in the text. The second movement is a more upbeat and lively setting of the text "Et gemitus mei non sunt absconditi a te" (And my groaning is not hidden from you). The music is characterized by faster rhythms and more complex harmonies, which convey the sense of urgency and desperation expressed in the text. The final movement is a return to the somber and mournful character of the first movement, with a setting of the text "Nonne enim sicut lacrimae meae cor meum" (For my heart is like my tears). The music is characterized by slow, mournful melodies and rich harmonies, which convey the deep sadness and despair expressed in the text. Overall, Deficiat in dolore vita mea, M. xvi (S. xvii/22) is a powerful and emotionally charged work that showcases Lassus' mastery of the polyphonic style of the late Renaissance period. The piece is notable for its rich harmonies, complex rhythms, and expressive use of text painting, which allows the music to convey the deep emotions expressed in the text.

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