Composer

:

Jean Berger

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

2:29

Jean Berger's "The Eyes of All Wait Upon Thee" is a choral work that was composed in 1950. It premiered in New York City in the same year. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, "The Eyes of All Wait Upon Thee," is a setting of Psalm 145. It begins with a solo soprano voice singing the opening line of the psalm, "I will extol thee, my God, O king." The choir then enters, singing in unison, before breaking into four-part harmony. The movement is characterized by its use of call-and-response between the soloist and the choir, as well as its use of dynamic contrasts to create a sense of tension and release. The second movement, "The Lord is Righteous," is a setting of Psalm 129. It begins with a slow, mournful melody sung by the choir in unison. The melody is then repeated in four-part harmony, with the addition of a descant sung by the sopranos. The movement is characterized by its use of dissonance and chromaticism to create a sense of unease and tension. The third movement, "The Lord is My Shepherd," is a setting of Psalm 23. It begins with a solo soprano voice singing the opening line of the psalm, "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want." The choir then enters, singing in four-part harmony. The movement is characterized by its use of simple, pastoral melodies and harmonies to create a sense of peace and tranquility. Overall, "The Eyes of All Wait Upon Thee" is a powerful and moving choral work that showcases Jean Berger's skill as a composer. Its use of biblical texts and its incorporation of both traditional and modern musical techniques make it a timeless piece that continues to be performed and enjoyed by audiences today.

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