SANCTUS (Adapted to Latin from Santo by M. Frisina)

When the preface concludes and the whole congregation joins the choirs of angels, this adaptation of Marco Frisina’s "Sanctus" brings a profound sense of majesty to the sanctuary. Originally composed as a "Santo" in Italian, this version sets the ancient Latin text to Frisina’s sweeping, cinematic melody. It is a piece that naturally lifts the heart, preparing everyone in the pews for the consecration.

Singing this Sanctus requires a good blend, especially as the voices move through the "Pleni sunt caeli et terra" and build toward the triumphant "Hosanna in excelsis." The arrangement gives the tenor section a beautiful moment to lead during the "Benedictus," stepping forward to proclaim the coming of the Lord before the full choir returns for the final, resounding Hosanna.

For Nigerian Catholic choirs, having a solid Latin Sanctus in the repertoire is always a joy, especially for solemnities and feast days. Frisina’s melodies have a way of feeling both grand and deeply prayerful, making this setting a wonderful choice when you want to bring a touch of classical reverence to the Mass.