Composer

:

Alison Beck

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

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Chamber Music

'Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence (after Gruber's Silent Night)' is a choral work composed by Alison Beck. The piece was composed in 2015 and premiered on December 6th of the same year by the choir of St. John's Episcopal Church in Stamford, Connecticut. The work is a setting of the traditional hymn text "Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence" and is based on the melody of the Christmas carol "Silent Night" by Franz Gruber. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement begins with a simple and serene setting of the hymn text, with the choir singing in unison. The melody of "Silent Night" is introduced gradually, first in the upper voices and then in the lower voices. The movement builds to a climax with a full choral statement of the "Silent Night" melody, before returning to the peaceful opening material. The second movement is more lively and rhythmic, with the choir singing the hymn text in a syncopated and dance-like rhythm. The "Silent Night" melody is woven throughout the movement, sometimes in the background and sometimes in the foreground. The movement ends with a joyful and exuberant statement of the "Silent Night" melody. The final movement is a quiet and contemplative setting of the hymn text, with the choir singing in a gentle and hushed tone. The "Silent Night" melody is heard in the background, played softly on the piano. The movement ends with a peaceful and serene final chord. Overall, 'Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence (after Gruber's Silent Night)' is a beautiful and moving choral work that combines the traditional hymn text with the beloved melody of "Silent Night". The three movements each offer a unique perspective on the text and the melody, creating a rich and varied musical experience for both performers and listeners.

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