A Song Made New

For Sunday, November 16, 2025
Cantate Domino by Hans Leo Hassler

By Carol Nave

This Sunday, the St. Paul’s Choir will sing Cantate Domino—“Sing to the Lord a new song”—by Hans Leo Hassler, a German composer from the late 1500s. Hassler spent time studying in Venice, where he learned the bright, joyful musical style of the Italian Renaissance. When he returned home, he brought that lively spirit into the music of the German church.

Cantate Domino sets words from Psalm 96, inviting all people to praise God with new songs. The piece begins simply, with one voice introducing the melody, and then other voices join in, weaving together in joyful harmony. The overlapping lines create a sense of movement and celebration, as if the music itself is lifting its voice in praise.

Though written more than four hundred years ago, Cantate Domino still feels fresh and full of life. Its radiant energy and clear beauty remind us that every generation is called to sing to the Lord with gladness and gratitude.