Shortly before his death, Giovanni Pergolesi moved to the Franciscan monastery in Pozzuoli, where he composed his last works. Among these is his Stabat Mater which reveals the infusion, into church composition, of the operatic style. Pergolesi's grand work features a lively declamation of the text and great melodic appeal and expressiveness. Underlying everything is the contrapuntal background that was expected in music composed for the church at this time.

The original version was for two soloists and small ensemble; this version has been arranged by John Hullah for For Soprano and Contralto Soli, Chorus of Female Voices and Piano accompaniment. Solo, Duo and Chorus movements alternate. This is the Novello Edition of the Vocal Score and is in Latin.