Sitivit Anima Mea by Palestrina is a companion movement to Sicut Cervus, which you heard last week. It is in the same key and also features Palestrina’s deft mastery over Renaissance counterpoint. Listen as the four parts weave in independent melodic gestures while simultaneously create beautiful unfolding harmonies. While these harmonies generally stick close to the home key, there’s a notable shift to a minor 5 chord on the word “lacrymae” (tears).

Is this is too much music jargon for you? Let’s put this another way: melodic = horizontal, harmonic = vertical. Palestrina is a genius in the control of those simultaneous elements (the living interaction of the horizontal and vertical). You’re hearing multiple tuneful melodies layered on top of one another, creating a tapestry in motion. That shift to the minor 5 chord—you don’t need to understand the theory to say there is an emotional shift created by that. Stay open to the moment and the impact of this music on your soul (anima tua).

Listening is a practice we grow in and is deep nourishment. Natalie Merchant’s song “Wonder” was inspired by her experiences working as a teenager at a camp for special needs children. Beyond its commercial success and being one of her most well-known songs, it has become an anthem to many people who grew up with special needs, as well as their caretakers. The song views them as “wonders,” with doctors having no explanation for their condition, but seeing the work of God in the creation. Merchant said, “It describes their strengths in spite of what others would see as deficiencies.” There’s a beautiful and emotional video that delves into Merchant’s personal relationship with the twins Kate and Kelly Daley.

— Chris E.