Concupiscendo concupiscit

Orlando di Lasso's motet Concupiscendo concupiscit is a powerful setting for SSATTB voices in Latin. Drawing on Old Testament texts from Psalms 51 and 144, the composer crafts a profound expression of spiritual longing and devotion. The opening verses, "Concupiscendo concupiscit anima mea laudare te, o Domine" (My soul longs exceedingly to praise you, O Lord), immediately establish a tone of fervent desire for divine connection. The text continues with a plea for the ability to speak God's praise: "aperi labia mea, ut annuntiet os meum laudem tuam" (open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise). This is followed by the declaration "Exaltabo te, Deus meus, in toto corde meo" (I will exalt you, my God, with all my heart). Lasso's mastery of polyphony is evident in his ability to imbue these sacred words with an emotional depth that resonates through the rich vocal textures of this motet.