Composer

:

Orlande de Lassus

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Publication Date

:

1567

Average_duration

:

2:12

"Im Mayen hört man die Hanen krayen" is a choral work composed by Orlande de Lassus, a prominent composer of the Renaissance period. The piece is also known as "In May one hears the roosters crowing" and is part of his collection of German songs, S. xviii/24. The composition is believed to have been written in the late 16th century, during Lassus' time as Kapellmeister at the court of Duke Albrecht V of Bavaria. The piece is written for four voices, with the melody carried by the soprano and tenor parts. The premiere of "Im Mayen hört man die Hanen krayen" is unknown, but it is likely that it was performed in the court of Duke Albrecht V. The piece was later published in Lassus' collection of German songs, which was printed in Munich in 1589. The composition is divided into three movements, with each movement featuring a different text. The first movement is a lively and joyful celebration of the arrival of spring, with the text describing the blooming flowers and the singing of the birds. The second movement is more contemplative, with the text reflecting on the transience of life and the inevitability of death. The final movement returns to the joyful mood of the first, with the text describing the pleasures of love and the beauty of the natural world. "Im Mayen hört man die Hanen krayen" is characteristic of Lassus' style, with its intricate harmonies and use of polyphony. The piece is also notable for its use of word painting, with the music reflecting the meaning of the text. For example, the first movement features a rising melody that mirrors the blooming of the flowers, while the second movement features a descending melody that reflects the idea of death. Overall, "Im Mayen hört man die Hanen krayen" is a beautiful and complex choral work that showcases Lassus' skill as a composer. Its joyful celebration of spring and contemplative reflection on life and death make it a timeless piece of music that continues to be performed and enjoyed today.

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