Ave maris stella

Jacobus Clemens non Papa's Ave maris stella is a sacred motet for STTTB voices in Latin. It sets the traditional Marian antiphon, drawing on the hymn's familiar opening lines which address Mary as 'star of the sea' and 'mother of God'. The text is a prayer for protection and guidance, asking Mary to intercede for humanity, to change Eve's name (representing sin) to joy, to free prisoners, give light to the blind, and banish evil. It also petitions her to show herself as a mother and ensure that those born for us may receive her prayers. The motet moves towards a final doxology praising God the Father, Christ, and the Holy Spirit.