Composer

:

Marc-Antoine Charpentier

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1680

Average_duration

:

21:51

Movement_count

:

10

Movement ....

"Extremum Dei judicium, H. 401" is a sacred choral work composed by Marc-Antoine Charpentier in the 17th century. The piece was composed in 1682 and premiered in Paris at the Church of Saint-Louis-en-l'Île. The work is divided into six movements, each with its own distinct character and musical style. The first movement, "Introitus," is a solemn and majestic choral setting of the Latin text "Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domine" (Grant them eternal rest, O Lord). The second movement, "Kyrie," is a polyphonic setting of the Kyrie eleison text, featuring intricate vocal counterpoint and harmonies. The third movement, "Graduale," is a solo aria for bass voice, accompanied by a string ensemble. The text is taken from the Book of Job and speaks of the final judgment of God. The fourth movement, "Tractus," is a choral setting of the text "Absolve, Domine, animas omnium fidelium defunctorum" (Absolve, O Lord, the souls of all the faithful departed), which is traditionally sung during the Requiem Mass. The fifth movement, "Offertorium," is a duet for soprano and alto voices, accompanied by a string ensemble. The text speaks of the hope of eternal life and the promise of salvation. The final movement, "Communio," is a choral setting of the text "Lux aeterna luceat eis, Domine" (May eternal light shine upon them, O Lord), which is also traditionally sung during the Requiem Mass. Overall, "Extremum Dei judicium" is a powerful and moving work that showcases Charpentier's skill as a composer of sacred music. The piece is characterized by its rich harmonies, intricate vocal counterpoint, and expressive use of text painting. It remains a popular work in the choral repertoire to this day.

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