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Antonio Vivaldi was an Italian Baroque composer known for his contributions to instrumental and vocal music. One of his notable works is the religious choral composition "Dixit Dominus," RV 594. Here are some interesting facts about this piece:

1. Title and Theme:

   • "Dixit Dominus" is a Latin phrase that translates to "The Lord Said" in English. The full title of the composition is "Dixit Dominus, RV 594," and it is a setting of Psalm 110 (Vulgate 109) from the Bible.

2. Psalm 110:

   • The psalm begins with the words "Dixit Dominus Domino meo" ("The Lord said to my Lord") and is attributed to King David. It is a powerful and triumphant psalm often associated with themes of victory and divine authority.

3. Vivaldi's Setting:

   • Vivaldi's "Dixit Dominus" is a choral masterpiece that showcases his skill in writing for both voices and instruments. It is scored for five solo voices (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass), mixed choir, strings, and continuo.

4. Composition Date:

   • Vivaldi composed "Dixit Dominus, RV 594" in the early 1700s, around 1715. This places it within the period of Vivaldi's employment at the Ospedale della Pietà in Venice, where he worked with an all-female ensemble of musicians.

5. Contrasting Movements:

   • The composition consists of multiple contrasting movements, ranging from lively and exuberant to solemn and contemplative. Vivaldi's use of contrasting sections within the work contributes to its overall dramatic effect.

6. Influence on Handel:

   • George Frideric Handel, the renowned German-British Baroque composer, was likely familiar with Vivaldi's works. Handel composed his own setting of "Dixit Dominus" (HWV 232) around 1707–1708, and some scholars believe that Vivaldi's composition may have influenced Handel's work.

7. Rediscovery:

   • Like many of Vivaldi's works, "Dixit Dominus, RV 594" faced a period of neglect after the Baroque era. However, in the 20th century, there was a resurgence of interest in Vivaldi's music, leading to the rediscovery and appreciation of this and many other compositions.

8. Recording and Performance:

   • Today, "Dixit Dominus, RV 594" is frequently recorded and performed by choirs and orchestras around the world. Its dynamic and expressive nature continues to captivate audiences, making it a staple in the repertoire of Baroque choral music.