Ave Virgo gratiosa

Ottavio Catalani’s motet Ave Virgo gratiosa sets a Latin text of praise for the Virgin Mary. The words address her as a gracious virgin, brighter than any star, glorious Mother of God, sweeter than honey, more ruddy than a rose, and whiter than a lily. The text continues to extol her virtues, noting that all goodness adorns her, all saints honour her, and Christ exalts her, making her most sublime in heaven. Sung by ATB voices, this sacred motet would be a fitting addition to a Marian devotion or a service of praise.