Beatus Laurentius a 9

Tiburtio Massaino’s Beatus Laurentius a 9 is a magnificent motet for double choir, scored for SSAT and STTTB. This Latin setting of a text concerning Saint Lawrence opens with the saint’s defiant words to his persecutors: 'My God I serve, and him alone I obey, and therefore I fear not your torments.' The music mirrors this conviction with a rich, nine-part texture. The composer exploits the separated choirs to create dramatic contrasts and imitative dialogue, building to powerful climaxes that reflect the unwavering faith of the martyr. It is a substantial work for advanced choirs, offering both technical challenges and profound expressive opportunities.