• Virga Jesse
• Puer Natus
• Nesciens Mater
• Gaudete Omnes

COMPOSER’S NOTE

These four motets aim to create a fresh and dramatic approach to well known ancient texts.  They are intended to be sung either as a complete set in the context of a concert or as individual items within a carol service or other liturgical setting.

Virga Jesse calls for an atmosphere of timelessness and deep prayer which may be made all the more meditative by the hushed alleluias.  Puer Natus should be an unabashed announcement to the world of the life-changing news of Christ’s birth, with the rhythmic propulsion and more explosive alleluias painting a scene of unrestrained celebration.  Nesciens Mater essentially pays homage to those great Renaissance polyphonists who paved the way of the major and minor key system. It was the expressive and uniquely characterful nature of the individual voice parts which not only gave their music life but also a profound spirituality, and it is hoped that something of this same spirituality is in evidence here.  After the opening unison ‘fanfare’ of Gaudete Omnes, the syncopated rhythms and agile melodic elements of the motet should pass freely between the voices, creating a sense of dialogue and, ultimately, elation.