Composer

:

Arthur Wills

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Anthem

Average_duration

:

4:44

'By the Waters of Babylon' is a choral work composed by Arthur Wills, an English composer and organist. The piece was composed in 1972 and premiered in the same year at the Norwich Cathedral in England. The work is divided into three movements and is scored for mixed choir and organ. The first movement, titled "By the Waters of Babylon," is a setting of Psalm 137. The music is slow and mournful, reflecting the sadness and longing of the exiled Israelites. The choir sings the text in unison, with the organ providing a somber accompaniment. The movement ends with a quiet, reflective passage. The second movement, titled "The Lord is My Shepherd," is a setting of Psalm 23. The music is more upbeat and joyful than the first movement, reflecting the comfort and security of the shepherd's care. The choir sings the text in harmony, with the organ providing a lively accompaniment. The movement ends with a triumphant flourish. The third movement, titled "Let All the World in Every Corner Sing," is a setting of a poem by George Herbert. The music is celebratory and exuberant, reflecting the joy and wonder of creation. The choir sings the text in harmony, with the organ providing a lively accompaniment. The movement ends with a grand, majestic passage. Overall, 'By the Waters of Babylon' is a powerful and moving work that showcases Wills' skill as a composer and his ability to evoke a range of emotions through music. The piece is a testament to the enduring power of choral music and its ability to inspire and uplift audiences.

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