Cantate Domino

"Cantate Domino" is one of those classic Latin motets that instantly lifts the energy in the choir loft. Composed by the Italian Baroque master Giuseppe Pitoni, this piece sets the opening verses of Psalm 149 to a bright, dancing rhythm. From the very first measure, the choir is called to do exactly what the text commands: "Sing to the Lord a new song."

What makes this arrangement so beloved by Catholic choirs is its driving, joyful momentum. Pitoni writes it in a lively triple meter, but he frequently plays with the rhythm, using hemiolas that make two measures of three beats suddenly feel like one big, sweeping measure. It gives the music a wonderful, swaying forward motion when we sing "laus ejus in Ecclesia Sanctorum" (His praise in the assembly of the saints).

Because of its triumphant call to rejoice ("Laetetur Israel in eo"), this motet is a brilliant choice for festive Masses. It works beautifully as a grand Entrance piece, a vibrant Offertory, or an anthem of praise during the Easter season. When the sopranos lead the final joyful phrases of "exultent in rege suo" (let them rejoice in their king), it leaves both the singers and the congregation with a profound sense of celebration.