This Alma Redemptoris mater rightly has a reputation of being one of Palestrina's most beautiful, most serene compositions. It is, not surprisingly, one of his more popular motets. Its approximately three-minute length, meager vocal forces, and simple beauty are the perfect combination for inclusion on many recordings and concert programs. For its text, Palestrina used an eleventh century Marian poem, the title of which is usually translated as Loving Mother of Our Savior. The motet opens with a tenor vocal line intoning the soothing, celestial theme with the other three vocal parts soon joining in. The mood throughout remains serene in its soaring, mesmeric singing, the four vocal lines typically uniting to convey a sense of religious ecstasy, then often focusing on one part—usually the soprano—to impart a greater sense of intimacy and peace. While the writing is simple and, of course, without instrumental accompaniment, it exhibits an expressive depth both in its cherubic atmosphere and melodic beauty. Even listeners not particularly fond of Renaissance-era sacred music should find this motet of great appeal.

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