This edition was prepared by Pothárn Imre — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Flemus extremos hominum labores
Staff Notation • Sacred, Motets
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Flemus extremos hominum labores by Orlando di Lasso — Lyrics
Flemus extremos hominum labores,
Flemus in finem properantis aevi
Funera, et jam jam quatienda saevo
Regna tumultu.
Ultima en orbem lacerant ruentem
Fata, quae nostri tripodes canebant.
Aemulus Christi populos et arces
Obsidet armis.
Heu quis in sanam rabiem tyranni,
Quis truces bello fugiat cohortes?
Nudus hinc illinc furit, et per urbes
Saeviat ensis.
Sed quid hos demens agitas furores?
Arma quid divis inimica versas?
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About Flemus extremos hominum labores
Orlando di Lasso's motet Flemus extremos hominum labores sets a powerful Latin text filled with dramatic imagery. The music is scored for SAATTB voices, offering rich harmonic possibilities for a large choir. The text opens with lamentations over human suffering and the swift passage of time, before moving to a depiction of war and the fury of tyrants. It speaks of the chaos afflicting the world, with 'fate' tearing apart the collapsing earth. Yet, amidst this turmoil, the text finds solace and unwavering strength in Christ, described as a firm rock that fears no storm or lightning. The motet contrasts earthly conflict with divine protection, offering a profound spiritual message.
