Hodie nobis rex coelorum

Ludovico da Viadana's motet Hodie nobis rex coelorum is written for double choir (SATB.SATB), creating a rich and resonant soundworld. The composer masterfully employs the two choirs, sometimes pitting them against each other, sometimes weaving them together in imitative passages, and at other times uniting them in powerful homophonic declarations. The Latin text, a Christmas antiphon, celebrates the birth of Christ. It speaks of God deigning to be born of a virgin, bringing salvation and joy. The motet moves from contemplation of this wonder to a jubilant acclamation of 'Gloria in excelsis Deo', culminating in an exultant Alleluia. It is a work of grand scope, suitable for a festive occasion.