Composer

:

Alfonso X (el Sabio)

Genre

:

Vocal

Compose Date

:

13th c.

Average_duration

:

04:23

Cantiga de Santa María 41, A Virgen, Madre de Nostro Sennor, was composed by Alfonso X (el Sabio) in the 13th century. It is a part of the Cantigas de Santa María, a collection of over 400 songs dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The Cantigas de Santa María were written in Galician-Portuguese, a language spoken in the Iberian Peninsula during the Middle Ages. The premiere of Cantiga de Santa María 41 is unknown, but it was likely performed in the royal court of Alfonso X. The song is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is a solo vocal performance accompanied by a drone instrument. The melody is simple and repetitive, with the singer repeating the same phrase several times. The lyrics praise the Virgin Mary as the mother of Jesus and ask for her protection and guidance. The second movement features a chorus of singers accompanied by a variety of instruments, including percussion, strings, and wind instruments. The melody is more complex than the first movement, with the singers weaving in and out of each other's lines. The lyrics describe the miracles performed by the Virgin Mary and ask for her intercession in times of trouble. The third movement is a solo vocal performance accompanied by a harp. The melody is slow and mournful, with the singer lamenting the sins of humanity and asking for the Virgin Mary's forgiveness and mercy. Overall, Cantiga de Santa María 41 is a beautiful and moving tribute to the Virgin Mary. Its simple melodies and heartfelt lyrics have made it a beloved piece of music for centuries.

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