Certa fortiter

Orlando di Lasso, a towering figure of the late Renaissance, composed this motet for SSATTB voices. Written in Latin, Certa fortiter draws on a text that offers concise exhortations to live a virtuous life: 'Fight bravely, pray fervently, work diligently, study often, be silent willingly, endure patiently'. Lasso's masterful setting captures the spirit of these encouraging phrases, bringing them to life with rich polyphony. This motet is a superb example of sacred part-music from its era, suitable for a choir seeking a piece that is both textually meaningful and sonically impressive. It demands skilled ensemble singing and offers a rewarding musical experience.