Composer

:

Felix Mendelssohn

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Psalm

Compose Date

:

Dec 27, 1843

Publication Date

:

1851

First Performance

:

Jan 1, 1844

Average_duration

:

7:57

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Felix Mendelssohn composed Psalm 98 Sing to the Lord, Op. 91 in 1843. The piece was premiered on December 2, 1843, in Leipzig, Germany, with the composer conducting. The work is a choral setting of Psalm 98, which is a hymn of praise to God for his salvation and righteousness. The piece is divided into three movements. The first movement is marked "Allegro maestoso" and is in the key of D major. It begins with a fanfare-like introduction in the brass and timpani, followed by the choir singing the first verse of the psalm. The music is joyful and exuberant, with the choir and orchestra alternating in call-and-response sections. The movement ends with a triumphant coda. The second movement is marked "Andante con moto" and is in the key of B-flat major. It is a more reflective section, with the choir singing the second verse of the psalm. The music is more subdued, with a gentle melody in the strings and woodwinds. The choir sings in a more legato style, with a focus on the text and its meaning. The third movement is marked "Allegro" and is in the key of D major. It is a lively and energetic section, with the choir and orchestra alternating in fast-paced sections. The choir sings the third and final verse of the psalm, with the music building to a grand finale. The movement ends with a joyful and triumphant coda. Overall, Psalm 98 Sing to the Lord, Op. 91 is a celebratory and uplifting work, with Mendelssohn's characteristic use of choral and orchestral textures. The piece showcases his skill in writing for both choir and orchestra, with a balance between the two that allows the text to shine through. The work is a testament to Mendelssohn's faith and his ability to express it through music.

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