Benedictus Dominus a 9 (tone i)

Orlando di Lasso’s Benedictus Dominus is a sacred setting of the Magnificat Benedictus text, traditionally sung at Morning Prayer. This extended motet is composed for nine voices (SSAT.SATTB), requiring a large and accomplished choir. The Latin text, taken from the Gospel of Luke, celebrates the divine redemption and salvation promised through the lineage of David, fulfilling ancient prophecies. Lasso’s masterful contrapuntal writing supports the devotional nature of the text, unfolding its rich theological meaning through intricate vocal interplay. The composer’s ability to bring out the sense of the words through his complex but clear musical structure is evident throughout this significant work.