Motet: meaning, definitions and examples

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motet

 

[ moสŠหˆtษ›t ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

music composition

A motet is a highly regarded form of vocal music primarily sung in a religious context. It originated in the Medieval period and was characterized by its use of sacred texts. Over time, motets evolved to include a variety of texts and styles, becoming prominent in the Renaissance with complex polyphonic structures. Composers such as Josquin des Prez and Palestrina significantly contributed to the development of the motet, making it an essential component of choral repertoires. Today, motets continue to be performed in concert settings, showcasing the intricate harmonies and rich musical heritage.

Synonyms

choral work, sacred music.

Examples of usage

  • The choir performed a beautiful motet at the service.
  • Many composers published motets throughout the Renaissance.
  • She studied several motets during her musicology course.

Translations

Translations of the word "motet" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น moteto

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคฎเฅ‹เคŸเฅ‡เคŸ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Motette

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ motet

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะผะพั‚ะตั‚

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ motet

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใƒขใƒ†ใƒƒใƒˆ

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท motet

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ motete

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท motet

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ๋ชจํ…ŒํŠธ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ู…ูˆุชูŠุช

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ motet

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ motet

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๆ‘ฉ็‰น

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ motet

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ motet

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะผะพั‚ะตั‚

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ›แƒแƒขแƒ”แƒขแƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ motet

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ motete

Etymology

The term 'motet' is derived from the French word 'mot', meaning 'word' or 'phrase', which reflects its focus on text and vocal expression. The motet first emerged in the 13th century, evolving from earlier forms of liturgical music. Early motets were typically composed in a polyphonic style, incorporating multiple independent melodies and voices. Over the centuries, composers began to explore various themes and texts beyond strictly religious content, leading to a broader interpretation of the form. The motet gained prominence in the 15th and 16th centuries, particularly during the Renaissance when composers such as Palestrina and Victoria became well-known for their intricate and expressive motets. The form remains a staple in choral music today, celebrated for its beauty and complexity.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,686 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.