Composer

:

César Franck

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1860

Publication Date

:

1862

Average_duration

:

5:51

César Franck's "Passez, passez toujours, M. 82" is a choral work composed in 1882. It premiered on May 14, 1882, at the Église Sainte-Clotilde in Paris, France. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, marked "Andante," begins with a somber and mournful melody sung by the choir. The text, taken from Psalm 39, speaks of the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death. The choir's melody is accompanied by a simple organ accompaniment, which adds to the solemnity of the piece. As the movement progresses, the choir's melody becomes more complex, with overlapping lines and harmonies that create a sense of tension and urgency. The second movement, marked "Allegro," is a stark contrast to the first. The choir's melody is now lively and energetic, with a sense of joy and celebration. The text, taken from Psalm 118, speaks of the goodness and mercy of God. The organ accompaniment is more complex, with fast-moving arpeggios and flourishes that add to the sense of excitement and exuberance. The final movement, marked "Andante," returns to the somber mood of the first. The choir's melody is once again mournful, with a sense of resignation and acceptance. The text, taken from Psalm 90, speaks of the brevity of life and the need to make the most of the time we have. The organ accompaniment is sparse, with long sustained chords that create a sense of emptiness and loss. Overall, "Passez, passez toujours, M. 82" is a powerful and emotional work that showcases Franck's skill as a composer. The piece is notable for its use of contrasting moods and textures, as well as its complex harmonies and intricate vocal lines. It remains a popular work in the choral repertoire to this day.

More....