Composer

:

Richard Davy

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

14:03

Richard Davy's 'Stabat Mater for 5 voices' is a sacred choral work that was composed in the early 16th century. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written between 1500 and 1525. The piece was likely composed for use in the chapel of Magdalen College, Oxford, where Davy was a member of the choir. The 'Stabat Mater' is a hymn that is traditionally sung during the liturgy of the Passion on Good Friday. The text describes the sorrow of Mary, the mother of Jesus, as she stands at the foot of the cross. Davy's setting of the text is divided into ten movements, each of which corresponds to a different verse of the hymn. The first movement begins with a simple, unaccompanied melody sung by the alto voice. The other voices gradually join in, creating a rich, polyphonic texture. The second movement features a solo soprano voice, accompanied by the other four voices. The third movement is a duet between the alto and tenor voices, while the fourth movement is a trio for alto, tenor, and bass. The fifth movement is a full choir setting, with all five voices singing together. The sixth movement returns to a solo soprano voice, accompanied by the other four voices. The seventh movement is a duet for soprano and alto, while the eighth movement is a trio for soprano, alto, and tenor. The ninth movement is another full choir setting, with all five voices singing together once again. The final movement is a simple, unaccompanied setting of the final verse of the hymn. Davy's 'Stabat Mater' is characterized by its rich, polyphonic texture and its use of imitative counterpoint. The piece is also notable for its use of solo voices and smaller ensembles within the larger choral setting. Overall, the 'Stabat Mater for 5 voices' is a beautiful and moving work that continues to be performed and appreciated today.

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