The phrase “Plaudite” is a Latin imperative verb meaning “applaud” or “give applause.” In the context of musical compositions, particularly those from the Renaissance and Baroque periods, it frequently appears as a concluding section or movement, signaling the end of a larger work and inviting the audience’s appreciation. Giovanni Gabrieli, a prominent composer of the Venetian school, frequently employed this device in his works, making it a hallmark of his compositional style. For instance, the concluding section of his Sacrae symphoniae often include triumphant, celebratory passages clearly intended to elicit a positive response from listeners.
The use of “Plaudite” in Gabrieli’s compositions highlights the composer’s awareness of the performance context and his intention to create a specific audience experience. This reflects a broader trend in the Venetian musical scene of emphasizing spectacle and audience engagement. The musical structures leading to these concluding sections often build to powerful crescendos and dynamic contrasts, thus heightening the sense of closure and encouraging the desired applause. Its historical significance lies in demonstrating a conscious artistic choice to shape audience reception through musical design, showcasing a unique approach to musical rhetoric.
This understanding of the composer’s intent and the concluding sections’ function is vital for appreciating the overall structure and artistic impact of Gabrieli’s works. Further analysis will delve into the specific musical techniques used to achieve this dramatic effect and examine the role of the Venetian musical environment in fostering this style.
