Christus factus est

Felice Anerio was a prominent Italian composer of sacred music in the late Renaissance and early Baroque periods. This motet, Christus factus est, is a powerful setting of a text drawn from the liturgy, specifically relating to the Passion of Christ. The music vividly illustrates the text's message of Christ's obedience unto death on the cross. The composer's skill is evident in his treatment of the contrasting vocal forces, writing for both SATB and ATBB choirs. This offers directors an opportunity for varied and dramatic sonic effects, employing the different ensembles to highlight the solemnity and profound theological meaning of the words. The Latin text itself is a profound reflection on Christ's sacrifice and subsequent exaltation by God.