In illo tempore

Josquin des Prez's setting of In illo tempore for SATB voices draws on a well-known passage from the Gospels. The text recounts Jesus revealing to his disciples his impending passion and resurrection. Josquin's mastery of motet composition is evident here in his sensitive treatment of the sacred Latin text. His setting features intimate moments, such as Jesus speaking to the disciples in secret, and dramatic pronouncements, like his foretelling of betrayal and crucifixion. The SATB voicing allows for rich harmonic colour and clear textual declamation, characteristic of Renaissance sacred music.