This edition was prepared by David Fraser — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Felix namque es
Staff Notation • Sacred, Motets
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Felix namque es by William Byrd — Lyrics
Felix namque es sacra Virgo Maria et omni laude dignissima,
quia ex te ortus est sol justitiae, Christus Deus noster.
Ora pro populo, intervene pro clero, intercede pro devote femineo sexu:
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About Felix namque es
William Byrd’s Felix namque es is a powerful motet for SATTB voices, celebrating the Virgin Mary. The Latin text, a Marian antiphon, extols her blessedness and her role as the mother of Christ, the sun of justice. It asks for her intercession for all people, clergy, and women. Byrd’s masterful setting reflects the text’s solemnity and devotion, with intricate vocal interplay and rich harmonic textures that build towards moments of profound expression. This is a substantial work, ideal for a choir seeking to explore the depth and beauty of Renaissance sacred polyphony.
