Composer

:

Douglas Knehans

Genre

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

13:50

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Psalms (3) for chorus is a choral work composed by Douglas Knehans. The piece was composed in 2015 and premiered on March 22, 2015, by the Cincinnati Vocal Arts Ensemble, conducted by Craig Hella Johnson. The work is divided into three movements, each based on a different psalm. The first movement, "Psalm 23," is a setting of the well-known psalm that begins "The Lord is my shepherd." The music is serene and contemplative, with the choir singing in unison at first before breaking into harmonies. The text is set in a straightforward manner, with the music supporting the words rather than drawing attention to itself. The second movement, "Psalm 121," is a more dramatic setting of the psalm that begins "I lift up my eyes to the hills." The music is more complex than in the first movement, with the choir singing in a variety of textures and rhythms. The music builds to a climax before subsiding into a quiet ending. The third movement, "Psalm 150," is a joyful setting of the psalm that begins "Praise the Lord." The music is lively and rhythmic, with the choir singing in a variety of styles, including gospel and jazz. The text is repeated several times, with the music becoming more exuberant each time. Overall, Psalms (3) for chorus is a beautiful and expressive work that showcases Knehans' skill as a composer. The music is accessible yet sophisticated, and the text is treated with reverence and sensitivity. The work is a testament to the enduring power of the psalms and their ability to inspire and uplift people of all faiths.

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