Composer

:

Giovanni Maria Sabino

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Magnificat

Average_duration

:

4:17

Giovanni Maria Sabino's 'Magnificat a 4' is a sacred choral work that was composed in the late 16th century. The piece is written for four voices, with two sopranos, alto, and bass. It is a setting of the Magnificat, a hymn of praise to the Virgin Mary, and is divided into eight movements. The 'Magnificat a 4' was likely composed during Sabino's time as maestro di cappella at the Basilica of San Lorenzo in Florence, where he worked from 1588 to 1591. The piece was likely intended for performance during the Christmas season, as the Magnificat is traditionally sung during the evening prayer service on the feast of the Nativity. The first movement of the 'Magnificat a 4' is a lively and joyful setting of the opening lines of the Magnificat, "Magnificat anima mea Dominum" ("My soul magnifies the Lord"). The second movement, "Et exultavit spiritus meus" ("And my spirit rejoices"), is a duet for the two sopranos that is characterized by its soaring melodies and intricate counterpoint. The third movement, "Quia respexit humilitatem ancillae suae" ("For he has looked upon the lowliness of his handmaid"), is a gentle and introspective aria for the alto voice. The fourth movement, "Quia fecit mihi magna" ("For he who is mighty has done great things for me"), is a lively and celebratory duet for the two sopranos. The fifth movement, "Et misericordia eius a progenie in progenies" ("And his mercy is from generation to generation"), is a gentle and flowing aria for the bass voice. The sixth movement, "Fecit potentiam in brachio suo" ("He has shown strength with his arm"), is a lively and rhythmic duet for the two sopranos. The seventh movement, "Deposuit potentes de sede" ("He has put down the mighty from their thrones"), is a dramatic and powerful aria for the alto voice. The final movement, "Sicut locutus est ad patres nostros" ("As he spoke to our fathers"), is a joyful and triumphant setting of the closing lines of the Magnificat. Overall, Sabino's 'Magnificat a 4' is a beautiful and expressive work that showcases the composer's skill in writing for voices. The piece is characterized by its lively rhythms, intricate counterpoint, and soaring melodies, and is a testament to Sabino's talent as a composer of sacred music.

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