This edition was prepared by Allen Garvin — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
How long shall mine enemies
Staff Notation • Sacred, Anthems
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How long shall mine enemies by William Byrd — Lyrics
In finem. Psalmus David. Usquequo, Domine, oblivisceris me in finem? usquequo avertis faciem tuam a me?
quamdiu ponam consilia in anima mea; dolorem in corde meo per diem?
usquequo exaltabitur inimicus meus super me?
Respice, et exaudi me, Domine Deus meus. Illumina oculos meos, ne umquam obdormiam in morte;
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About How long shall mine enemies
William Byrd, a towering figure of the English Renaissance, composed this compelling anthem for six voices (ATTBB or ATTBarB). The work draws on biblical text, opening with a Latin plea from Psalm 13, before transitioning to English words expressing profound anguish and an ultimate reliance on divine mercy. Byrd’s setting masterfully conveys the emotional arc of the text, from desperate questioning to resolute faith. This sacred anthem, suited for a discerning choir, offers a powerful exploration of human frailty and spiritual endurance through Byrd's signature contrapuntal skill and harmonic richness.
