De Profundis (psalm 129), motet for large choir with 5 and 6 mixed voices, soloists, flute, oboe, strings and basso continuo by Michel-Richard Delalande:
This De profundis is the most famous motet of Michel Richard Delalande.
Based on the text of Psalm 129 (or 130 according to the new numbering) to which is added the "Requiem aeternam", this composition was written in 1689 for soloists (2 sopranos, countertenor, tenor and baritone), choir in 5 or 6 parts, flute, oboe, strings (2 violin parts, 2 viola parts) and basso continuo (including cello, double bass, bassoon and organ).
It is famous for the homophonic grandeur of its mystical beginning and for the intense and daring counterpoint of its conclusive Requiem aeternam (unprecedented in French music).
The complete edition of this splendid work of choral literature has been restored by Didier Godel from the "Cauvin Manuscript" (1741) which presents a complete instrumental version of this motet.
This manuscript is based on the engraved edition of Boyvin (fully encrypted), established in 1729 under the direction of Colin de Blamont. These two documents refer to the same autograph source of Delalande, a manuscript made by the workshop of Philidor the Elder (dated 1689).
Restitution and realization of the basso continuo by Didier GODEL.