The Mystique of Miserere by Allegri

Few choral works in history have been as shrouded in secrecy and reverence as Gregorio Allegri’s Miserere mei, Deus. Composed in the early 17th century for the exclusive use of the Sistine Chapel, this setting of Psalm 51 was considered so sacred that Pope Urban VIII forbade its transcription under penalty of excommunication. It was
performed only during the Tenebrae services of Holy Week, its soaring polyphony echoing through the Vatican, reserved solely for the ears of the papal court.

For over a century, the piece remained hidden—until 1770, when a 14-year-old Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, visiting Rome with his father, attended a performance. After hearing it just once, he transcribed it from memory, effectively breaking the Vatican’s exclusive hold. Soon, the piece was published and spread across Europe, though not without variations emerging.

One of the most famous aspects of the Miserere is the ethereal high C sung by the top soprano in the famous ornamented passages. However, this embellishment was not part of Allegri’s original manuscript but rather a result of 19th-century editorial modifications. Over time, different versions evolved, incorporating embellishments passed down through the oral tradition of the Sistine Chapel Choir. Today, the high C is often
considered an essential and breathtaking feature of the piece—yet it is not what Allegri originally wrote.

In our performance edition, we present a historically informed score that captures the essence of both the original composition and the later embellishments that have become beloved by audiences. This edition
allows choirs to sing the Miserere in its pure form while also embracing the breathtaking soprano flourishes that have defined its mystique.

Whether you seek historical accuracy or the awe-inspiring high C, our carefully prepared score provides a definitive version of one of the most transcendent choral works ever composed.