Composer

:

Francis Poulenc

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

1938 - 1939

Average_duration

:

14:44

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Francis Poulenc's 'Quatre motets pour un temps de pénitence, FP 97' is a choral work composed in 1938. The piece was premiered in Paris on March 15, 1938, by the Choeur de la Société Musicale Indépendante, conducted by Roger Désormière. The work consists of four movements, each based on a different text from the Bible. The first movement, 'Timor et tremor,' is based on Psalm 55 and is characterized by its haunting, dissonant harmonies and use of chromaticism. The second movement, 'Vinea mea electa,' is based on Isaiah 5:1-7 and features a more lyrical, melodic style with a sense of longing and sadness. The third movement, 'Tenebrae factae sunt,' is based on the Gospel of Matthew and is perhaps the most dramatic of the four. It begins with a somber, mournful melody before building to a powerful climax with the choir singing in unison. The final movement, 'Tristis est anima mea,' is based on Matthew 26:38 and is a quiet, introspective piece that ends the work on a contemplative note. Overall, 'Quatre motets pour un temps de pénitence' is a deeply spiritual work that reflects Poulenc's Catholic faith. The piece is characterized by its use of dissonance and chromaticism, which create a sense of tension and unease, as well as its lyrical melodies and powerful climaxes. It remains a popular work in the choral repertoire and is often performed during the Lenten season.

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