Beatus Larentius

Raffaella Aleotti, a composer of the late Renaissance, offers this powerful motet for SATTB choir. Setting a Latin text, the motet focuses on the martyrdom of Saint Lawrence. The opening lines describe Lawrence, suffering on the gridiron, praying to Jesus Christ for mercy. Aleotti’s setting likely reflects the dramatic and devotional context of sacred polyphony of her era, drawing on the tradition of Marian antiphons and motets which were central to Catholic liturgy and private devotion. The expressive text provides ample opportunity for compelling musical interpretation by a choir seeking a substantial sacred work.