motet notes - Palestrina

Palestrina: Vinea mea electa

"Vinea mea electa" connects the two complementary parables from today’s readings where the vineyard owner of the first reading is accused of the tenant’s crimes in the Gospel. The homophonic opening gives way to flowing  polyphony at the mention of sweetness, yet quickly turns to harsh block chords at the bitterness of the betrayal.  A treble trio provides the needed change in color for the comforting text that follows.

©Ryan Turner

Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina (1525-1594)

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