Factum est silentium

Peter Philips's motet Factum est silentium paints a dramatic scene from the Book of Revelation. The Latin text describes the silence in heaven as the dragon, identified with Satan, prepares to battle the Archangel Michael. This is followed by the voices of a vast multitude praising Almighty God, extolling His salvation, honour, and power, as thousands upon thousands serve Him. The composer sets this apocalyptic vision for a large double choir of SSATB and AATTB, creating a rich and sonorous texture that amplifies the text's awe-inspiring message of divine victory and unending praise.