Confortamini et jam nolite

Orlando di Lasso sets a powerful text from the Old Testament in this motet for SATB choir. The opening bars immediately establish a sense of urgent command, with the voices entering in succession, building to a rich homophonic declaration. The composer skillfully employs imitative polyphony to depict the unfolding message of reassurance and divine judgment. The Latin text, taken from Isaiah, speaks of taking strength and not fearing, as God himself will come to save his people. Lasso's masterful setting highlights the dramatic narrative, offering a compelling and sonically impressive experience for choirs seeking a substantial Latin motet from the Renaissance.