The Strathclyde Motets

Roman Breviary, Psalm 84: 13 (L)

Choral level of difficulty: Level 2 (5 greatest)

In writing the Strathclyde Motets MacMillan set out to write a series of communion motets of only moderate difficulty, which would be of real and lasting use for average church or concert choirs. Aware that much of his choral music to date could be too challenging for average use, these new motets provide a very welcome opportunity for almost any choir of reasonable attainment and ambition to sing some contemporary music of real value.

Dominus dabit benignitatem is a hugely impressive motet starting from the simplest of means and often ending phrases with easily managed clusters. As with all these motets a solo line often predominates which is echoed in other parts. The final Amens are as beautiful as they are unexpected. (Basses need a low E flat)

Repertoire note by Paul Spicer