The 12-voice Stabat Mater by Felice Anerio, an Italian composer, exemplifies the late 16th-century trend towards massive vocal forces, reflecting the Counter-Reformation's triumphal spirit.
Composer Biography
Palestrina, a renowned Italian composer, was ejected from the Sistine Choir in 1555 because he was married.
Historical Context
The Council of Trent, which convened from 1545 to 1563, decreed that church music should ensure words are clearly understood and draw listeners to heavenly harmonies.
Composition History
Felice Anerio, an Italian composer, was appointed official Papal composer on April 3, 1594, succeeding Palestrina, a position he proudly declared in his 1596 book of Motets.
Historical Context
The Papal Choir declined in the 17th century as falsettists were replaced by castrati, who were increasingly drawn to the fame and fortune of opera.
Cultural Impact
Gregorio Allegri's Miserere gained fame partly because its secret decorations were jealously guarded by Papal singers until Mozart reputedly wrote them down.
Historical Context
The Sistine Chapel, built by Pope Sixtus IV (1471-1484), is famous for its decorations, but also for the magnificent music written and sung within its walls.
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