Ave pulcherrima Regina

This sacred motet by Alexander Agricola is set in Latin for ATB voices. The text is a Marian devotional, addressing the Virgin Mary as the most beautiful Queen, filled with divine grace. It praises her unique position, chosen by God as His bride from her youth, highlighting her virtue. The lyrics recall the Annunciation, when an angel was sent to Mary, who pleased God so greatly. She received the angel's words with humility, accepting God's will with the profound response, 'Let it be done to me according to your word.' The composer captures the reverence and awe of this pivotal moment in Christian history through his devotional setting.