Composer

:

César Franck

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1871

Average_duration

:

5:09

"Dextera Domini" is a sacred choral work composed by César Franck in 1872. It was premiered on November 3, 1872, at the Church of Sainte-Clotilde in Paris, where Franck was the organist and choirmaster. The piece is divided into three movements and is written for four-part choir, soloists, and organ. The first movement, "Dextera Domini," is a powerful and majestic setting of Psalm 118:16-17, which speaks of the right hand of the Lord being exalted and doing mighty deeds. The choir sings in unison, with the organ providing a rich and full accompaniment. The soloists enter with a soaring melody, which is then taken up by the choir in a grand and triumphant chorus. The second movement, "Fiat misericordia tua," is a more subdued and introspective setting of Psalm 118:76-77, which speaks of God's mercy and compassion. The choir sings in a gentle and prayerful manner, with the soloists providing a counterpoint of hope and faith. The final movement, "In saecula saeculorum," is a joyful and exuberant setting of the Gloria Patri, which is a hymn of praise to the Holy Trinity. The choir and soloists sing in a lively and rhythmic manner, with the organ providing a festive accompaniment. The piece ends with a triumphant flourish, as the choir and organ join together in a final burst of praise and thanksgiving. Overall, "Dextera Domini" is a powerful and moving work that showcases Franck's skill as a composer and his deep faith as a Catholic. The piece is characterized by its rich harmonies, soaring melodies, and grandeur, which make it a favorite of choirs and audiences alike.

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