Composer

:

Gustav Holst

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Art Song

Compose Date

:

1907

Average_duration

:

3:13

The Heart Worships, H. 95 is a choral work composed by Gustav Holst in 1919. It was premiered on October 22, 1920, at the Queen's Hall in London, conducted by Holst himself. The piece is divided into three movements and is scored for a mixed choir and organ. The first movement, "The Heart Worships," is a setting of a poem by the 17th-century English poet Thomas Traherne. The music is characterized by a gentle, flowing melody in the choir, accompanied by a simple organ part. The harmonies are mostly diatonic, with occasional chromaticism to add color and interest. The overall effect is one of peaceful contemplation and devotion. The second movement, "The Earth Adore," is a setting of a poem by the 18th-century English poet William Blake. The music is more lively and rhythmic than the first movement, with a driving organ part and a more complex choral texture. The harmonies are still mostly diatonic, but there are more dissonances and unexpected chord progressions. The overall effect is one of joyful celebration and exaltation. The third movement, "The Heavens Laugh," is a setting of a poem by the 19th-century English poet Robert Bridges. The music is the most complex and dramatic of the three movements, with a wide range of dynamics, textures, and harmonies. The choir sings in a declamatory style, with frequent changes of tempo and mood. The organ part is virtuosic, with rapid figurations and dramatic chords. The overall effect is one of awe and wonder at the majesty of the heavens. Overall, The Heart Worships is a beautiful and moving work that showcases Holst's skill as a composer of choral music. The three movements are united by a common theme of worship and adoration, but each has its own distinct character and mood. The piece is a testament to Holst's ability to create music that is both technically sophisticated and emotionally powerful.

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