This edition was prepared by James Gibb — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Benedictus in D minor
Staff Notation • Sacred, Morning Canticles
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Benedictus in D minor by William Byrd — Lyrics
Benedíctus [Dóminus,] Deus Israël,
quia visitávit, et fecit redemptiónem plebis suæ:
Et eréxit cornu salútis nobis
in domo David, púeri sui.
Sicut locútus est per os sanctórum,
qui a sǽculo sunt, prophetárum ejus:
Salútem ex inimícis nostris,
et de manu ómnium, qui odérunt nos.
Ad faciéndam misericórdiam cum pátribus nostris:
et memorári testaménti sui sancti.
Jusjurándum, quod jurávit ad Abraham patrem nostrum,
datúrum se nobis:
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About Benedictus in D minor
William Byrd's Benedictus in D minor is scored for SAATTB voices. The setting unfolds with intricate contrapuntal textures, typical of Byrd's mature sacred vocal style. The Latin text, taken from the Gospel of Luke, is the canticle sung by the father of John the Baptist. It praises God for visiting and redeeming his people, promising salvation through the house of David and recalling God's covenant with Abraham. The music's profound and devotional character perfectly embodies the text's hopeful anticipation and solemn thanksgiving, offering a rich and rewarding experience for both singers and listeners.
