Caeciliam cantate pii

This festive Latin motet by Nicolas Gombert calls for an SATBB choir to praise Saint Cecilia, patron saint of music. The text enumerates a vast array of instruments, from organs and lyres to trumpets and drums, all called upon to celebrate her. It imagines a grand concert in her honour, a rich sonic landscape befitting her patronage. The composer’s own rich harmonic language and contrapuntal skill are well-suited to depicting such a magnificent musical tribute, urging the singers to pour forth their most joyous sounds in praise. The text ultimately equates knowing music with loving Cecilia, linking her devout life and marriage to the beauty of song.