motet notes - Palestrina

Palestrina’s mastery of strict Renaissance counterpoint was used as a pedagogical model by students of nearly every succeeding generation. "Confitemini Domino" is a most evocative motet, serving as an example of what is now universally idealized as the “Palestrina style.”  Originally scored for all male voices (TTBB), this setting of Psalm 118 is arranged for four mixed voices (SATB). Notice how the opening tenor line follows the sopranos at a distance and the streams of mercy are abundantly flowing.  As we tip-toe back into music making  at Emmanuel, this motet of thanksgiving and prayer for mercy aptly reminds us all of the treasures of community missed and the essential spiritual ministry of music.

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