Animam meam dilectam

Derrick Gerarde’s powerful motet Animam meam dilectam is scored for SATTBB choir. This Latin setting is drawn from a biblical text that expresses a profound sense of abandonment and betrayal. The lyrics speak of a soul given into the hands of enemies, with adversaries rising up without mercy. The imagery evokes a desert of solitude and a longing for recognition and help, only to find none. This dramatic and emotionally charged work would serve as a compelling centrepiece for a service of Tenebrae or a concert programme exploring themes of suffering and redemption. Gerarde’s masterful handling of the six-part choir allows for rich harmonic colours and a profound exploration of the text’s lament.