S A T B recorders, plus Bass Viol, Serpent, Percussion
"Angelus ad Virginem" is a lively medieval carol that narrates the story of the Annunciation, blending both reverence and joyous energy. Originating in the 13th century, this tune was popular across Europe, even finding its way into literature—Geoffrey Chaucer references it in The Canterbury Tales. Its setting in G mixolydian mode—a rather cheery mode for the time—infuses the melody with brightness, making it stand out among other medieval compositions.
I arranged this piece for the Knoxville Recorder Society, whose ensemble features a bass viol, serpent, percussion, and SATB recorders.