Exultate Deo

Massaino’s Exultate Deo unfolds with joyous energy, the six-part SSAATTB voicing creating a rich, contrapuntal texture. Set to a Latin text drawn from Psalm 81, the motet overflows with jubilant praise for God, the helper of Israel. The composer responds to the text’s exclamations of praise, the sounding of trumpets and the celebration of a solemn feast day with vibrant musical ideas. The music moves from bold declarations to more intimate passages, reflecting the text’s narrative arc, which includes God’s intervention and testing of his people. This is a powerful and festive setting, perfect for a choir seeking a substantial sacred work.