Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is perhaps one of the most famous composers of all time, known for his piano works, operas, chamber music, symphonies, and more. At only 17, Mozart composed his motet, Exsultate, jubilate, a three-movement work for solo voice and strings. After hearing the great castrato Venanzio Rauzzini at the premiere of his opera, Lucio Silla, Mozart wrote Exsultate, jubilate for his moving voice. In modern days, the motet is frequently sung by sopranos. Mozart brilliantly set the joyous text to music, with playful coloratura in the first and final movements. A recitative leads us into the second movement, a peaceful tune about the Virgin Mary. He ends with Alleluia, the movement most frequently performed from this motet. Though it has only one word, the music has captivated audiences for centuries with joyful coloratura lines and conversation between the singer and accompaniment. Exsultate, jubilate, O vos animae beatae exsultate, jubilate, dulcia cantica canendo; cantui vestro respondendo psallant aethera cum me.
Rejoice, be glad, O you blessed souls, Rejoice, be glad, Singing sweet songs; In response to your singing Let the heavens sing forth with me.
Fulget amica dies, jam fugere et nubila et procellae; exortus est justis inexspectata quies. Undique obscura regnabat nox, surgite tandem laeti qui timuistis adhuc, et jucundi aurorae fortunatae. frondes dextera plena et lilia date. Tu virginum corona, tu nobis pacem dona, tu consolare affectus, unde suspirat cor.
The friendly day shines forth, both clouds and storms have fled now; for the righteous, there has arisen an unexpected calm. Dark night reigned everywhere [before]; you who feared till now, and joyful for this lucky dawn give garlands and lilies with full right hand. You, o crown of virgins, grant us peace, console our feelings, from which our hearts sigh.
Alleluja.
Alleluja.
Text by unknown Translation by Elizabeth Parcells