Composer

:

Arthur Sullivan

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Introit

Compose Date

:

1902

Average_duration

:

1:20

"O Hearken Thou" is a choral work composed by Arthur Sullivan, an English composer best known for his collaborations with librettist W.S. Gilbert on the famous Savoy operas. The piece was composed in 1872 and premiered on May 22 of the same year at the Crystal Palace in London. The work is a setting of a text from the biblical book of Jeremiah, specifically chapter 18, verses 19-23. The text is a plea from the prophet to God, asking for justice and vengeance against his enemies. Sullivan's setting is in four movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement is marked "Andante maestoso" and begins with a solemn, stately introduction from the choir. The text is set in a homophonic style, with the choir singing in unison or in simple harmonies. The movement builds to a climax with the choir singing "Pour out thy fury upon them" in a powerful, fortissimo passage. The second movement is marked "Allegro moderato" and is more lively and rhythmic than the first. The choir sings in a more complex, contrapuntal style, with overlapping phrases and intricate harmonies. The text is set in a call-and-response style, with the choir alternating between the roles of the prophet and the people. The third movement is marked "Andante sostenuto" and is the most introspective and contemplative of the four. The choir sings in a gentle, flowing style, with the text set in long, sustained phrases. The movement builds to a climax with the choir singing "Remember that I stood before thee" in a poignant, emotional passage. The final movement is marked "Allegro con fuoco" and is the most dramatic and intense of the four. The choir sings in a fast, frenzied style, with the text set in rapid, staccato phrases. The movement builds to a thrilling climax with the choir singing "Persecute them with thy tempest" in a powerful, fortissimo passage. Overall, "O Hearken Thou" is a powerful and expressive choral work that showcases Sullivan's skill as a composer. The piece is notable for its use of contrasting moods and styles, as well as its effective setting of the biblical text.

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