Angelus ad pastores ait a 7

Andrea Gabrieli was a leading figure in Venetian music in the late sixteenth century. His motets often exploit rich sonorities and varied textures. This motet, Angelus ad pastores ait, is set for seven voices (ATBBBBB). The Latin text is from the Gospel of Luke, describing the Annunciation to the Shepherds. The angel's message of 'great joy' is conveyed with an exultant Alleluia, and the subsequent text proclaims the birth of a 'little child' who will be called 'Mighty God'. Gabrieli's setting captures the grandeur and solemnity of the biblical narrative, making it a powerful and moving work for a skilled choir.