Crucifixus in C minor, originally for 8-part choir, was arranged for double bass octet by David Heyes in 2002 for a performance at London's prestigious Purcell Room, where it was performed by an international ensemble from four European countries.

The slow and solemn part writing transcribes well for double basses and there is scope for creating a performance of great breadth and power. The terraced dynamics should be carefully observed and Crucifixus can be performed by octet or larger forces and may benefit from the use of a conductor.

Antonio Lotti was born in Venice of Hanover in c.1667 and died in Venice in 1740. He became organist at St. Mark's (Venice) in 1690, eventually becoming maestro di cappella in 1736, and was a prolific composer of operas and church music. Much of his vocal music has remained popular until the present day, particularly his settings of Crucifixus for 8 and 10 voices.

Lotti's music bridges the late Baroque and early Classical styles and Charles Burney, who heard his church music in 1770, characterises his music as both solemn and touching, and capable of expression through his effective and masterly use of counterpoint.