Aquam quam ego dabo

Manuel Cardoso's motet Aquam quam ego dabo is written for SSATB voices. The composer creates a rich texture, with the upper voices often echoing or responding to the lower parts, building a sense of conversation and shared devotion. The Latin text, taken from the Gospel of John, recounts Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well. Cardoso's setting captures the spiritual depth of the words, particularly the promise of eternal satisfaction found in Christ's living water. The motet unfolds with a clear sense of direction, its devotional character enhanced by the skillful interplay of the five vocal parts.