Composer

:

Notre Dame School Anonymous

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Conductus

Compose Date

:

before 1170

Average_duration

:

2:06

In rama sonat gemitus is a medieval motet composed by an anonymous composer from the Notre Dame School. The motet was composed in the 13th century and is believed to have been premiered in the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France. The motet is composed of three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is in a triple meter and is characterized by a lively and rhythmic melody. The second movement is in a duple meter and is more somber and mournful in tone. The third movement returns to the triple meter of the first movement and is characterized by a joyful and celebratory melody. The text of the motet is taken from the Gospel of Matthew and describes the massacre of the innocents by King Herod. The text is sung in Latin and is divided between the three voices of the motet. The first voice sings the opening lines of the text, "In Rama sonat gemitus, ploratus et ululatus," which translates to "In Rama there is weeping, lamentation, and great mourning." The second voice sings a response to the first voice, "Rachel plorans filios," which translates to "Rachel weeping for her children." The third voice sings a response to the first two voices, "Nolite flere, quia surrexit," which translates to "Do not weep, for he has risen." The motet is notable for its use of polyphony, which was a hallmark of the Notre Dame School. Polyphony is the use of multiple independent melodies sung at the same time, creating a complex and layered sound. The motet also features a prominent use of rhythmic patterns, which were a key element of medieval music. Overall, In rama sonat gemitus is a powerful and moving example of medieval music. Its use of polyphony and rhythmic patterns, combined with its somber and celebratory melodies, make it a testament to the skill and creativity of the anonymous composer from the Notre Dame School.

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