Composer

:

Pierre de la Rue

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Mass

Pierre de la Rue was a Franco-Flemish composer of the Renaissance period. He was born in Tournai, Belgium, around 1452 and died in Kortrijk, Belgium, in 1518. He was one of the most important composers of his time, and his music was widely performed throughout Europe. One of his most famous works is the Missa 'Ave sanctissima Maria', which was composed around 1503. The mass is based on the plainchant melody 'Ave sanctissima Maria', which is used as the cantus firmus throughout the work. The mass is written for four voices (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass) and is in the typical Renaissance polyphonic style. The Missa 'Ave sanctissima Maria' is divided into six movements: Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, Agnus Dei I, and Agnus Dei II. Each movement is characterized by its own unique musical style and structure. The Kyrie is a simple and solemn setting of the text, while the Gloria is more elaborate and joyful. The Credo is the longest movement and is divided into several sections, each of which is set to a different musical theme. The Sanctus is a lively and energetic setting of the text, while the Agnus Dei I is a more subdued and introspective movement. The final movement, Agnus Dei II, is a reprise of the first Agnus Dei, but with a different musical setting. The Missa 'Ave sanctissima Maria' is a prime example of Renaissance polyphony, with its intricate vocal lines and complex harmonies. It is also notable for its use of the cantus firmus, which was a common technique in Renaissance music. The mass was premiered in the early 16th century and has since become one of de la Rue's most famous works.

More....