Composer

:

Basil Harwood

Genre

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Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Average_duration

:

6:38

'O how glorious' is a choral work composed by Basil Harwood, an English composer and organist, in 1910. The piece was premiered on 22nd June 1910 at the Worcester Festival, where Harwood was the organist. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, marked 'Allegro con fuoco', is a lively and energetic piece that features a full choir and organ accompaniment. The second movement, marked 'Andante sostenuto', is a more subdued and reflective piece that features a solo soprano voice accompanied by the choir and organ. The final movement, marked 'Allegro vivace', is a triumphant and celebratory piece that features the full choir and organ. The text of 'O how glorious' is taken from Psalm 8, which praises God's majesty and power. Harwood's setting of the text is characterized by its rich harmonies, soaring melodies, and dramatic contrasts between the different movements. The piece is also notable for its use of antiphonal effects, with the choir and organ alternating between different sections of the church to create a sense of spatial depth and resonance. Overall, 'O how glorious' is a powerful and uplifting choral work that showcases Harwood's skill as a composer and organist. Its premiere at the Worcester Festival was a great success, and the piece has since become a beloved part of the choral repertoire.

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