Composer

:

James MacMillan

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Average_duration

:

4:33

'Sedebit Dominus Rex' is a choral work composed by James MacMillan in 1990. It was premiered on 22nd September 1990 at St. Mary's Cathedral in Edinburgh, Scotland. The piece is written for a mixed choir and is based on Psalm 29, which is a hymn of praise to God's power and majesty. The work is divided into three movements. The first movement begins with a powerful and majestic choral introduction, which sets the tone for the rest of the piece. The choir sings the words "Sedebit Dominus Rex in aeternum" (The Lord shall reign forever) in unison, before breaking into a complex and intricate polyphonic texture. The movement is characterized by its use of dissonant harmonies and rhythmic complexity, which create a sense of tension and drama. The second movement is more contemplative in nature. The choir sings the words "Dominus virtutum nobiscum" (The Lord of hosts is with us) in a gentle and soothing melody. The movement is characterized by its use of simple harmonies and a slower tempo, which create a sense of peace and tranquility. The final movement is a return to the power and majesty of the first movement. The choir sings the words "Dominus fortis et potentissimus" (The Lord is strong and mighty) in a triumphant and celebratory melody. The movement is characterized by its use of complex rhythms and harmonies, which create a sense of joy and exultation. Overall, 'Sedebit Dominus Rex' is a powerful and complex choral work that showcases James MacMillan's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its use of dissonant harmonies, complex rhythms, and intricate polyphonic textures, which create a sense of tension and drama. However, the work also has moments of contemplation and peace, which provide a contrast to the more intense sections. The piece is a testament to MacMillan's ability to create music that is both challenging and beautiful.

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