Conditor alme siderum (pares)

Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina's setting of the hymn Conditor alme siderum is a revered example of Renaissance sacred polyphony. Composed for SATB choir, this Latin motet adheres to the text's profound expression of Christian faith. The hymn, dating from the 7th century, praises Christ as the creator of the stars and eternal light, the redeemer of all, and the one who, out of compassion, saved humanity from death. It describes his emergence from the Virgin Mary's womb like a bridegroom from his chamber, and the universal dominion of his power. The text petitions Christ the King to preserve the faithful from the wiles of the enemy.