Hodie Sanctus Benedictus

This motet by Peter Philips is suitable for services celebrating saints, particularly Benedict. The Latin text describes the heavenly reception of Saint Benedict on the day of his passing. It speaks of him travelling eastward, ascending to heaven while his disciples watched, and finally being received by angels in glory amidst his prayers. Philips sets this text for SSATB choir, with the rich harmonies and contrapuntal lines characteristic of sacred Renaissance polyphony. It is a powerful and evocative setting, ideal for a choir seeking a motet that combines devotional text with accomplished vocal writing from the period.