Sances: Motetti a 2, 3, 4, a cinque voci (1642)

This edition presents a collection of twenty-five motets (for two to six voices and continuo) published by the imperial court composer Giovanni Felice Sances (ca. 1600–1679) in 1642, a critical year of the Thirty Years' War (1618–48). Many aspects of the collection, such as the dedication to Count Vilem Slavata (as well as other external features), the choice of motet texts, and how the music enhances the words, demonstrate a close relationship between this book and Habsburg politics and piety, making the print an effective means of propaganda for Holy Roman Emperor Ferdinand III (r. 1637–57). In addition, the edition provides a valuable cross-section of mid-seventeenth-century musical style, with works ranging from various concertato styles to more staid da cappella works.