This motet for four voices expressing spiritual yearning is one of Palestrina’s most popular motets and is regarded as a model of Renaissance polyphony.  

Approximate performance time: 3 min.
Year composed: 1584

Text

Sicut cervus desiderat ad fontes aquarum,
ita desiderat anima mea ad te, Deus.

— Psalm 41 v.1 (Vulgate)

Translation

As the deer desires the springs of water
so desires my soul for you, God