Diffusa est (Nativitatis)

Grace has been poured out upon your lips, and for that reason God has blessed you for ever. These words from the Song of Solomon are here set by Heinrich Isaac in a rich SATB motet. Sung in Latin, this sacred setting would have been appropriate for a communion rite during Christmastide, given the subtitle (Nativitatis) and the text’s devotional nature. Isaac’s masterful counterpoint weaves the voices together, creating a sonorous and devotional atmosphere that fulfils the promise of the text.