Thomas Tallis - Absterge Domine

From "Penitence & Lamentation" (2023)
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The text for Absterge Domine does not trace to any known source (Biblical or otherwise), which suggests that it may have been written specifically for this music, possibly even by Tallis himself. This penitential prayer is set to especially imitative music, in which each point of imitation circulates through all five voices in quick succession. After a somewhat subdued opening, there is a clear drive towards the text nam tu es Deus meus ("for thou art my God"). As the piece is ending, the line et serviet per aevum tibi spiritus meus ("and my spirit shall serve thee forever") seems to get an especially tender treatment, giving the impression that this eternity of service is offered freely, even with gratitude. - Josh Haberman
***
Absterge Domine delicta mea, quae
inscienter juvenis feci, et ignosce
poenitenti, nam tu es Deus meus, tibi soli
fidit anima mea.
Tu es salus mea. Dolorem meum testantur
lachrimae meae. Sis memor Domine bonae
voluntatis tuae. Nunc exaudi preces meas et
serviet per aevum tibi spiritus meus. Amen.
--
O Lord, wipe away my faults which I in
ignorance committed in my youth, and forgive
the penitent one: for thou art my God, my soul
hath faith in thee alone.
Thou art my salvation. My tears witness my
grief. Remember, O Lord, thy good will. Hear
now my prayers, and my spirit shall serve thee
throughout all ages. Amen.
***
Produced by Scribe Studios
The Byrd Ensemble, directed by Markdavin Obenza
Soprano: Margaret
Alto 1: Joshua Haberman
Alto 2: Sam Faustine
Tenor: Thomas Segen
Bass: Clayton Moser
Recorded September 2022 at Holy Rosary Church (Seattle, WA)

[@newenglandgreenman]

Outstanding. This is possibly my favorite piece by Tallis. Your performance rivals my favorite, by the Hilliard Ensemble. I hear the spiritual pathos of the Latin text reflected in your voices. The conductor keeps the urgent rhythm that Tallis intended. The voices are well balanced. I will look for your recording. Thank you!

[@MarkdavinObenza]

Thank you, wow!! Our recording is out now. Should be on all the platforms - “Penitence and Lamentation.”