Composer

:

Arthur Bliss

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1956

Publication Date

:

1956

First Performance

:

Feb 20, 1956

Average_duration

:

4:11

Arthur Bliss composed 'Seek the Lord, Op. 82, F. 51' in 1955. The piece was premiered on October 25, 1955, at the Royal Festival Hall in London, conducted by the composer himself. The work is a choral setting of Psalm 105, which is a hymn of praise and thanksgiving to God for his mercy and faithfulness to his people. The piece is divided into three movements. The first movement is marked "Allegro moderato" and is in a lively 6/8 time signature. The choir sings the opening lines of the psalm, "O give thanks unto the Lord; call upon his name," in unison before breaking into a four-part harmony. The music is joyful and celebratory, reflecting the psalm's theme of thanksgiving. The second movement is marked "Andante con moto" and is in a slower 4/4 time signature. The choir sings the psalm's verses, which describe God's faithfulness to his people throughout history. The music is more contemplative and introspective, with lush harmonies and a sense of reverence. The final movement is marked "Allegro vivace" and is in a fast 6/8 time signature. The choir sings the psalm's closing lines, "Glory ye in his holy name; let the heart of them rejoice that seek the Lord." The music is triumphant and exultant, with a sense of joy and celebration. Bliss's setting of Psalm 105 is characterized by its rich harmonies, lush textures, and expressive melodies. The music is both celebratory and introspective, reflecting the psalm's themes of thanksgiving and faithfulness. The piece is a testament to Bliss's skill as a choral composer and his ability to capture the emotional depth of religious texts in his music.

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