Composer

:

Orlande de Lassus

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Publication Date

:

1582

Average_duration

:

3:25

'Osculetur me osculo' is a motet composed by Orlande de Lassus, a prominent composer of the Renaissance period. The piece is also known as M. xix (S. xxi/9) and is part of a collection of motets called 'Canticum Canticorum', which is based on the biblical Song of Solomon. The motet was composed in the late 16th century and premiered in Munich, Germany, where Lassus was employed as a court musician. The piece is written for six voices, with two sopranos, two altos, and two basses. The text is in Latin and is taken from the Song of Solomon, chapter 1, verse 1: "Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth, for thy love is better than wine." The motet is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked 'Allegro' and is characterized by its lively and joyful tempo. The second movement is marked 'Adagio' and is more contemplative and introspective in nature. The final movement is marked 'Allegro' and is a return to the joyful and celebratory mood of the first movement. The piece is notable for its use of polyphonic textures, with each voice singing a different melody that weaves together to create a rich and complex harmonic tapestry. The use of dissonance and chromaticism is also a hallmark of Lassus' style, adding a sense of tension and drama to the piece. Overall, 'Osculetur me osculo' is a beautiful and expressive motet that showcases Lassus' mastery of polyphonic composition and his ability to convey a range of emotions through music.

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