Congratulamini mihi omnes

Jacobus Clemens non Papa’s motet Congratulamini mihi omnes sets a text of personal devotion and spiritual fruitfulness. The words speak of rejoicing with one who has pleased the Most High since childhood and has given birth to God and man. The composer imagines the speaker then comparing herself to a vine, whose fragrance and fruit are those of honour and honesty. This setting for SATB voices is a striking example of sacred Renaissance part-music, its Latin text allowing for a direct and powerful expression of faith and spiritual maturity. It is a fine motet for any choir seeking to explore the rich polyphonic tradition of the 16th century.