| Remarks: |
The text of this motet has neither a Biblical or liturgical
source but, like several other similar texts set by Byrd,
was also set by Clemens (non Papa), a composer who was
known for his choice of unusual texts of a penitential
cast. Bearing no musical similarity to Clemens’s
setting and conceived on a large-scale, Byrd’s
motet ranks among his most moving compositions – many
vivid expressive details including moments of bold
chromaticism, are molded into a broadly unfolding musical
discourse that when well-managed is heart wrenching
in its cumulative impact. ("Grant us, Lord, your long-desired peace...
and have mercy on your sighing and weeping people.") |
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