Alma Redemptoris Mater a 8 (For the 5 voice setting, click here.)

Tomás Luis de Victoria was the most famous Spanish composer of the 16th century, his work forming a high point of the Counter-Reformation. This motet, Alma Redemptoris Mater a 8, is a votive antiphon setting of a well-known Marian text. Victoria’s characteristic rich harmonic language and contrapuntal mastery are evident in his eight-part writing, dividing the choir into two SATB choirs that can be performed independently or together. The text, which addresses Mary as the ‘Soul of the Redeemer’s Mother’, the ‘ever-open door of heaven’ and the ‘star of the sea’, implores her aid for humanity’s redemption and mercy for sinners.