Composer

:

George Frederick Handel

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Anthem

Compose Date

:

1717 - 1718

Average_duration

:

18:23

Movement_count

:

7

Movement ....

George Frederick Handel's Chandos Anthem No. 6 in E minor, As Pants the Hart, HWV 251b, was composed in 1717 for the Duke of Chandos, who was a patron of Handel's music. The anthem was premiered at the Duke's private chapel in Cannons, Edgware, on September 8, 1717. The anthem is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement, "As Pants the Hart," is a setting of Psalm 42 and is characterized by its mournful and introspective tone. The second movement, "Why So Full of Grief," is a setting of Psalm 43 and is more upbeat and hopeful in character. The final movement, "Put Thy Trust in God," is a setting of Psalm 42:11 and is characterized by its triumphant and joyful tone. The anthem is scored for four-part choir, soloists, and orchestra, and features a variety of musical textures and techniques. The opening movement, for example, features a solo soprano accompanied by a simple organ accompaniment, while the second movement features a duet between the alto and tenor soloists. The final movement, meanwhile, features a full choir and orchestra, with Handel making use of imitative counterpoint and other compositional techniques to create a sense of grandeur and celebration. Overall, Handel's Chandos Anthem No. 6 in E minor, As Pants the Hart, HWV 251b, is a masterful example of Baroque choral music, showcasing Handel's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both emotionally powerful and musically complex.

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