Composer

:

Henry Purcell

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

ca. 1687

Average_duration

:

4:03

"How long, great God?, Z. 189" is a sacred choral work composed by Henry Purcell in the late 17th century. The piece was likely composed in the early 1690s, and it was first performed in 1694 at St. Paul's Cathedral in London. The work is divided into four movements, each of which features a different text. The first movement is a choral setting of Psalm 79, "O God, the heathen are come into thine inheritance." The second movement is a duet for soprano and bass, with text from Psalm 80, "Hear, O thou Shepherd of Israel." The third movement is a choral setting of Psalm 74, "O God, why hast thou cast us off forever?" The final movement is a choral setting of Psalm 89, "Lord, thou hast been our refuge." The music of "How long, great God?" is characterized by Purcell's signature blend of English and Italian styles. The choral movements are marked by rich harmonies and expressive melodies, while the duet features a more intimate, conversational style. Throughout the work, Purcell employs a variety of musical techniques to convey the emotional depth of the text, including chromaticism, dissonance, and sudden shifts in dynamics. Overall, "How long, great God?" is a powerful and moving work that showcases Purcell's mastery of sacred choral music. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the enduring power of Purcell's music and the enduring relevance of the psalms that inspired it.

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