This edition was prepared by André Vierendeels — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Ego dormio
Staff Notation • Sacred, Motets
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Ego dormio by Giovanni Girolamo Kapsperger — Lyrics
Ego dormio, et cor meum vigilat: vox dilecti mei pulsantis,
Aperi mihi, soror mea, [sponsa,] amica mea, columba mea, [formosa mea, speciosa mea,]
immaculata mea. Quia caput meum plenum est rore, et cincinni mei guttis noctium.
Aperui dilecto meo pessulum ostii mei [at ille totus desiderabilis clamans ad me]
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About Ego dormio
Composed for a solo voice, this sacred motet by Giovanni Girolamo Kapsperger sets a text drawn from the Song of Songs, often interpreted in a Marian context. The composer’s setting explores the intimate dialogue between the soul and Christ, opening with the words Ego dormio, et cor meum vigilat (I sleep, but my heart is watchful). The text speaks of a yearning for connection, with Christ knocking and the soul responding, inviting him in. The music would be particularly fitting for services during Lent or Advent, or for Marian feasts, offering a moment of profound reflection on divine love and spiritual union. The lyrical phrases like 'Aperi mihi' (Open to me) and 'Pone me sicut signaculum super cor tuum' (Put me as a seal upon your heart) are deeply devotional.
