Composer

:

Samuel Sebastian Wesley

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1851

Average_duration

:

13:15

"Ascribe Unto the Lord" is a choral anthem composed by Samuel Sebastian Wesley, an English organist and composer, in 1834. The piece was first performed at the consecration of the Bishop of Gloucester in the same year. The anthem is written in four movements, each with its own distinct character and musical style. The first movement is a lively and energetic setting of Psalm 29:1-2, "Ascribe unto the Lord, O ye mighty, ascribe unto the Lord glory and strength." The music is marked by strong rhythms and bold harmonies, reflecting the power and majesty of the text. The second movement is a more subdued setting of Psalm 96:9, "O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness." The music is characterized by flowing melodies and gentle harmonies, creating a sense of reverence and awe. The third movement is a setting of Psalm 29:3-4, "The voice of the Lord is upon the waters: the God of glory thundereth: the Lord is upon many waters." The music is marked by dramatic contrasts between loud and soft, reflecting the imagery of thunder and water in the text. The final movement is a triumphant setting of Psalm 29:10-11, "The Lord sitteth upon the flood; yea, the Lord sitteth King for ever." The music is characterized by soaring melodies and majestic harmonies, creating a sense of grandeur and celebration. Overall, "Ascribe Unto the Lord" is a powerful and expressive choral anthem that showcases Wesley's skill as a composer. The piece is marked by strong rhythms, bold harmonies, and dramatic contrasts, reflecting the power and majesty of the biblical texts it sets.

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