Pronunciation: [mɒtˈɛt] (IPA) 
The word "motet" is spelled M-O-T-E-T. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /moʊˈtɛt/. The first syllable "mo" is pronounced with a long "o" sound, as in "go". The second syllable "tet" is pronounced with a short "e" sound, as in "met", followed by a stressed "et" with an open "e" sound as in "pet". A motet is a polyphonic choral composition, often religious in nature, that dates back to the Medieval and Renaissance periods.
A motet refers to a vocal musical composition that emerged during the medieval period and reached its peak in the Renaissance era. It is a polyphonic choral piece often written for unaccompanied voices. The word “motet” is derived from the Latin term “motetus” which means “word.” This reflects the historical significance of the genre being associated with textual content, often drawn from sacred texts like the Bible.
A motet typically consists of several distinct melodic lines, each sung by different vocal parts. It is characterized by its intricate and complex harmonies, as well as the interplay between the various lines. The individual voices in a motet often present contrasting musical phrases or ideas while harmonizing together to create a rich and multi-layered texture.
Throughout its history, the motet has undergone various stylistic transformations, reflecting the changing musical preferences and compositional techniques of different time periods. Initially, motets were predominantly sacred in nature, serving as musical offerings in religious ceremonies. However, in later times, secular texts were also used, allowing for a wider range of expressions.
The motet played a vital role in the development of Western classical music, bridging the gap between monophonic plainchant and the sophisticated polyphony of later periods. Its multi-part structure and technical intricacy paved the way for the composition of more complex vocal and instrumental pieces. Today, while the motet is not as prevalent in contemporary music, its legacy lives on through its influence on subsequent choral and vocal genres.
A short piece of sacred music; a hymn.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "motet" has its origins in the Latin term "motectus". It comes from the verb "movere", meaning "to move". In medieval times, the word "motet" referred to a piece of music that was performed while the choir moved from one place to another within a church or cathedral. Eventually, the term "motet" became associated with a specific type of polyphonic vocal composition, characterized by multiple voices singing different texts simultaneously. Over time, the word "motet" evolved to encompass various musical forms and styles.
