Domine, non est exaltatum

Thomas Morley, a significant figure of the English Renaissance, composed this sacred motet. It is written for a choir of six parts: Soprano, Tenor x2, Bass x2, and Alto, or Soprano, Tenor, Baritone x2, and Bass. The text, sung in Latin, is taken from Psalm 131 (130) and is part of the "Songs of Ascents." It expresses a profound humility and trust in God, contrasting worldly ambition with inner peace. The composer's setting of this devotional text reflects the contrapuntal and expressive style characteristic of late 16th-century sacred music, offering a rich harmonic palate for the choir.