The setting is largely homophonic, thus devoid of the contrapuntal fireworks of his other motets. Dering's love of daring harmonies remains, however, with plenty of surprising tonal twists, cross relations, and unprepared dissonances. Although the organ was certainly used originally, as with all works from the Tudor period, the anthem would be equally effective unaccompanied. For those wishing to have the organ support the voices, Lyne provides a stylistic continuo realization that is more interesting than a simple reduction of the choir's pitches. If the usual settings of the Ave Maria are feeling a bit stale, this gem might furnish a breath of fresh air. * Jason Overall, Journal of the Association of Anglican Musicians, May 2016 * The motet's musical style owes much to the madrigals of Monteverdi, being essentially homophonic in style with predominantly syllabic text setting and rhythmic figures thrown between the parts. The edition converts the Mixolydian mode into G major and halves the note values, and interpreters are left to infuse the music with whatever level of fervent expression they may choose. * Geoffrey Webber, Choir & Organ, May 16 *
