Deus qui dedisti legem Moysi

This sacred motet for SATTB voices, set in Latin, comes from the late Renaissance master Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina. It is suitable for occasions when the choir wishes to reflect on divine law and the intercession of saints. The text draws a parallel between God giving the Law to Moses on Mount Sinai and the miraculous placement of the body of Saint Catherine, Virgin and Martyr, by angels on the same mountain. The music builds towards a plea that, through her merits and prayers, the singers and congregation may reach the 'mountain which is Christ'. Palestrina's characteristic contrapuntal mastery creates a flowing and devotional setting, ideal for liturgical use or concert programming.