Laudibus in sanctis (Byrd) explained

Latin: Laudibus in sanctis
Type:Sacred motet
Composer:William Byrd
Image Upright:0.8
Text:Psalm 150
Language:Latin
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Latin: Laudibus in sanctis is a three-section Latin motet by William Byrd that paraphrases, rather than sets, Psalm 150. Published for five-part choir in his 1591 collection Cantiones sacrae, its sections have these incipits: Laudibus in sanctis — Magnificum Domini — Hunc arguta.

History

Byrd was a notable composer of the Tudor period. He composed much sacred music, first for the Catholic Church, of which he was and would remain a member, and later for the Anglican liturgy. Psalm 150 calls for praise of God in music, and even cites nine instruments.[1] Besides Byrd, it has inspired composers such as Anton Bruckner, Igor Stravinsky and Benjamin Britten.

Music

Byrd's psalm setting Latin: Laudibus in sanctis is in 16th-century madrigal style, featuring syncopes and onomatopoeic word settings. In a triple metre, it has at times dance character. It is set for five voices, two sopranos, alto, tenor and bass.

Recordings

The beginning became the title of a collection of Byrd's sacred motets, which features the piece as the conclusion. It was recorded by The Cardinall's Musick conducted by Andrew Carwood in 2006. The recording is volume 10 of The Byrd Edition.

Notes and References

  1. Web site: The Final Psalm. Rabbi Jack. Abramowitz. 2019. June 13, 2019. Orthodox Union.