Composer

:

Alfonso X (el Sabio)

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

11:34

Cantiga de Santa María 209, also known as "Muito faz grand' erro, e en torto jaz," was composed by Alfonso X (el Sabio) in the 13th century. It is part of a collection of over 400 songs known as the Cantigas de Santa María, which were written in Galician-Portuguese and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The premiere of this particular cantiga is unknown, but it was likely performed in the royal court of Alfonso X or in a religious setting. The song is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement begins with a lively instrumental introduction, featuring a melody played on a stringed instrument. The lyrics describe a man who has made a grave mistake and is now suffering the consequences. He begs the Virgin Mary for forgiveness and asks for her help in setting things right. The second movement is slower and more contemplative, with a mournful melody played on a wind instrument. The lyrics describe the man's despair and his realization that he cannot fix his mistake on his own. He turns to the Virgin Mary for guidance and asks for her intercession. The third movement is more upbeat, with a lively melody played on a percussion instrument. The lyrics describe the man's joy and relief when the Virgin Mary intervenes on his behalf and helps him to set things right. He praises her for her mercy and asks for her continued protection. Overall, "Muito faz grand' erro, e en torto jaz" is a powerful and emotional song that reflects the deep devotion to the Virgin Mary that was common in medieval Spain. Its combination of lively instrumental passages and mournful vocals creates a sense of tension and release that is characteristic of the Cantigas de Santa María as a whole.

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