Emendemus in melius a 6

This responsory is suitable for use in services of penitence and reflection. The Latin text implores divine mercy, urging amendment of life before the sudden day of death prevents any chance of repentance. It speaks of past sins, acknowledging past transgressions and the dust to which all mortals return. The composer, Andrea Gabrieli, has set this solemn plea for six voices (ATTBBB), creating a rich contrapuntal texture to underscore the gravity of the text. A further verse offers a direct plea for help and liberation in God's name.