Composer

:

Michael Berkeley

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Orchestral

First Performance

:

Nov 1990

Average_duration

:

10:42

Gethsemane Fragment is a contemporary classical composition by British composer Michael Berkeley. It was composed in 1991 and premiered on 23rd April 1992 at St. John's Smith Square in London. The piece is a single movement work that lasts for approximately 10 minutes. The composition is inspired by the biblical story of Jesus Christ's agony in the Garden of Gethsemane before his crucifixion. The piece is characterized by its haunting and ethereal quality, which captures the sense of despair and anguish that Christ experienced during this moment. The piece begins with a slow and mournful melody played by the strings, which is then joined by the woodwinds and brass. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the percussion adding a sense of urgency and tension to the piece. As the music reaches its climax, the choir enters with a powerful and emotive vocal line, singing the words "Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me." The choir's voices blend seamlessly with the orchestral accompaniment, creating a sense of unity and harmony. The piece then gradually fades away, with the choir and orchestra returning to the mournful melody that opened the piece. The final notes of the composition are played softly and delicately, leaving the listener with a sense of peace and reflection. Overall, Gethsemane Fragment is a powerful and moving composition that captures the essence of Christ's agony in the Garden of Gethsemane. Its haunting melodies and emotive vocal lines make it a memorable and poignant work that is sure to leave a lasting impression on listeners.

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