Jesu Christe, auctor vitae

Heinrich Finck's Jesu Christe, auctor vitae sets a Latin text that petitions Christ as the author of life. The words recall his sacrifice, through which Adam's sin was washed away, and the penitent Mary Magdalene was granted the fruit of repentance. This SATB setting is a powerful example of sacred music from the Renaissance, fitting for liturgical use. Finck's contrapuntal skill is evident in his treatment of this devotional text. The composer was active in northern Germany and Poland, and his works often display a clear, sonorous texture ideal for a cappella performance.