Audivi vocem de caelo

This motet by Pierre de Manchicourt is ideal for feasts of All Saints or for services honouring the saints. The text is a responsory and alleluia, drawn from scripture and liturgical sources. It speaks of a voice from heaven like that of great thunder, announcing God’s eternal reign and the salvation brought by Christ. The text then calls upon all saints, and those who fear the Lord, both small and great, to give praise. The composer has written for a substantial choir, divided into two choirs of SAATTB and SATTTB, creating rich vocal textures and dramatic contrasts. The chant-like cantus firmus, Omnes sancti, intercédite pro nobis, is woven throughout, reinforcing the devotional character of the work.