Sicut cervus(Palestrina, SSAA)

Composer: Giovannni Pierluigi da Palestrina
Editior: Ko Matsushita

Words from the Editor

The transcription of Renaissance works, originally for SATB chorus, into SSAA chorus is actually not that easy a task. The degree of difficulty varies from composer to composer.

In this respect, Palestrina’s method is beautifully arranged so that this piece could be transcribed for SSAA chorus without much difficulty.

The most distinctive feature of this version is the notation of a large three-beat section hidden in the second half of the piece. This sense of a compounded rhythm would allow the choir to express themselves more colorfully.

I hope you will enjoy this edition of a Renaissance work that has not been easily enjoyed by SSAA choirs.