Composer

:

Edward Bairstow

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

ca. 1929

Average_duration

:

3:26

'Jesu, grant me this, I pray' is a choral anthem composed by Edward Bairstow, an English composer and organist. The piece was composed in 1929 and premiered at York Minster on 17th November of the same year. The anthem is written for four-part choir (SATB) and is based on a text by the English poet and priest, Richard Crashaw. The text is a prayer to Jesus, asking for his guidance and protection. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement begins with a gentle and flowing melody in the soprano and alto parts, accompanied by a simple organ accompaniment. The tenor and bass parts enter with a more rhythmic and declamatory section, singing the words "Jesu, grant me this, I pray". The movement builds to a climax with the full choir singing in harmony, before subsiding back into the gentle opening melody. The second movement is more introspective and contemplative, with the choir singing in a more subdued and restrained manner. The organ accompaniment is also more complex, with intricate harmonies and counterpoint. The text of this movement focuses on the idea of surrendering oneself to Jesus, with the choir singing "Take me, O take me as I am". The final movement is the most exuberant and joyful of the three, with the choir singing in a lively and celebratory manner. The organ accompaniment is also more lively, with fanfare-like passages and virtuosic flourishes. The text of this movement is a plea for Jesus to "keep me, guide me, love me, Lord", and the music reflects this with its joyful and triumphant character. Overall, 'Jesu, grant me this, I pray' is a beautiful and expressive choral anthem, showcasing Bairstow's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both uplifting and contemplative. Its three movements each offer a different perspective on the text, and the music is both accessible and rewarding for both performers and listeners.

More....