Adesto Sancta Trinitas (1st setting)

John Sheppard's first setting of Adesto Sancta Trinitas opens with a rich, imitative texture where the five voice parts of SATTBB weave around each other. This is a Latin Office hymn, a prayer to the Holy Trinity, praising its unity and splendour. The text speaks of the heavenly militia lauding God, and the composer's own humble supplication joining with theirs. The music reflects the text's solemnity and the doctrine of the Trinity, with phrases often moving in parallel motion, creating a sense of steadfast devotion. The work culminates in a doxology, a final act of praise to God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.