This edition was prepared by Jason Smart — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Ave Dei Patris Filia
Staff Notation • Sacred, Votive antiphons
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2 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
SATTB · Rupert Preston Bell
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Ave Dei Patris Filia by John Taverner — Lyrics
Ave Dei patris filia nobilissima,
Dei filii mater dignissima,
Dei Spiritus sponsa venustissima,
Dei unius et trini ancilla subiectissima.
Ave summae aeternitatis filia clementissima,
summae veritatis mater piissima,
summae bonitatis sponsa benignissima,
summae trinitatis ancillia mitissima.
Ave aeternae caritatis desideratissima filia,
aeternae sapientiae mater gratissima,
aeternae spirationis sponsa sacratissima,
aeternae maiestatis ancilla sincerissima.
Ave Jesu tui filii dulcis filia,
Christi Dei tui mater alma,
sponsa sine ulla macula,
deitatis ancilla sessioni proxima.
Ave Domini filia singulariter generosa,
Domini mater singulariter gloriosa,
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About Ave Dei Patris Filia
John Taverner's Ave Dei Patris Filia is a Latin votive antiphon for Marian devotion, suitable for services throughout the liturgical year. This five-part setting for SATTB voices explores the multifaceted relationship of Mary to the Godhead. The text addresses her as daughter, mother, and spouse to God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, emphasizing her unique role and profound humility.
The text unfolds through a series of parallel invocations, each beginning with 'Ave' and highlighting Mary's connection to divine attributes such as eternity, truth, goodness, charity, wisdom, and majesty. Taverner's music, with its clear lines and resonant harmonies, beautifully captures the devotional intensity and solemnity of these praises, making it an eloquent choice for contemplative moments within a sacred service.
