Confundantur omnes

Jacobus Clemens non Papa was a prominent composer of sacred polyphony in the Netherlands during the 16th century. His motets often display a masterful command of contrapuntal technique and expressive word-setting. This setting of a Latin text from the Psalms is written for a five-part choir of treble, treble, treble, bass, and bass voices (STTTB). The text expresses a plea for divine assistance against enemies, beginning with a prayer for the confusion of those who persecute the singer, and a desperate cry, 'Help me, O Lord my God and my Saviour.' Clemens captures the dramatic intensity of the text through rich vocal textures and clear declamation, making it a powerful addition to a sacred choral programme.