Psallite, unigenito

Psallite, unigenito is a joyful Christmas motet by the German composer Michael Praetorius, one of the most important musical figures of the early Baroque period. The Latin text begins “Psallite unigenito, Christo Dei Filio,” meaning “Sing praises to the only-begotten, Christ the Son of God.” The music alternates lively refrains with brief verses, creating a festive call-and-response style typical of Praetorius’s sacred works. With its bright rhythms and repeated “eia” refrains, the piece captures the exuberant spirit of Christmas celebration and reflects the rich choral traditions of Lutheran Germany in the early 17th century.