SSATBB unaccompanied

NOTE FROM THE COMPOSER

This work was commissioned for the "500th anniversary of Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina" (b. 1525) by UT Insieme Vocal-Consonante and Lorenzo Donati. Maestro Donati is a very prominent university professor and conductor in Italy and well beyond.

Giovanni Pierluigi (from the town of Palestrina - about 45 kilometers from Rome) was a leading Italian composer of polyphony (or the interweaving of independent melodic lines) in the late Renaissance. He is primarily known for his masses and motets, but he did write secular music, as well. Pierluigi (often called "Palestrina") was married and had four children. He is buried under the floor of St. Peter’s Basilica, and is one of the most celebrated and well-known composers in history.

DEI MATRIS CANTIBUS is an original composition, although loosely based on a short portion of two Gregorian chants honoring Mary. This new 21st century work pays homage to ancient music performance and combines that with contemporary techniques. The title translates as "Songs of the Mother of God" and is a celebration of the character of Mary. The work explores quiet, contemplative moments as well as towering sonorities, reflecting on the love, yet strong and unwavering commitment of this powerful woman revered by humanity. She is a universal symbol of purity, faith, and love.

Dei Matris Cantibus is only available through zrstroope.com.