Creavit Deus hominem

Jacobus Clemens non Papa was a prolific composer of sacred polyphony in the 16th century. This motet, Creavit Deus hominem, is set for SATTB choir in Latin. The text is drawn from the Book of Genesis and describes God's creation of humankind in His image, male and female, blessing them and commanding them to be fruitful and multiply, and to have dominion over the earth. The music reflects the 'very good' nature of God's creation, with rich harmonic textures and a flowing melodic style that perfectly captures the solemnity and joy of the creation narrative. It is a masterful example of sacred Renaissance part-music.