Composer

:

Benjamin Britten

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Psalm

Compose Date

:

1962

Average_duration

:

5:06

Psalm 150, Op. 67 is a choral work composed by Benjamin Britten in 1962. It was premiered on July 15, 1962, at the Aldeburgh Festival in Suffolk, England. The piece is divided into five movements, each of which is based on a verse from Psalm 150. The first movement, "O praise God in his holiness," is a lively and rhythmic setting of the opening verse of the psalm. The choir sings in unison, with occasional harmonies and interjections from the organ. The second movement, "Praise him in the firmament of his power," is a slower and more contemplative section, with the choir singing in four-part harmony. The organ provides a gentle accompaniment, with occasional flourishes and trills. The third movement, "Praise him for his mighty acts," is a fast and energetic section, with the choir singing in unison and the organ providing a driving rhythm. The fourth movement, "Praise him according to his excellent greatness," is a slower and more majestic section, with the choir singing in four-part harmony and the organ providing a rich and full accompaniment. The final movement, "Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord," is a joyful and exuberant section, with the choir singing in unison and the organ providing a lively and celebratory accompaniment. The piece ends with a triumphant flourish from the organ. Overall, Psalm 150, Op. 67 is a vibrant and dynamic choral work that showcases Britten's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its rhythmic energy, rich harmonies, and inventive use of the organ. It is a fitting tribute to the psalm's exhortation to praise God with all one's heart, soul, and breath.

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