Composer

:

Francis Poulenc

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

1939

Average_duration

:

3:11

"Timor et tremor, FP 97/1" is a choral work composed by Francis Poulenc in 1951. It was premiered on June 10, 1951, at the Festival of Sacred Music in Strasbourg, France. The piece is divided into three movements and is based on a text from the Book of Psalms. The first movement, "Timor et tremor," is a setting of Psalm 55:5-8. The text speaks of the fear and trembling that the psalmist feels in the face of his enemies. Poulenc's music captures the sense of unease and anxiety in the text through the use of dissonant harmonies and jagged rhythms. The movement ends with a quiet, prayerful section that offers a sense of hope and comfort. The second movement, "Veni Sancte Spiritus," is a setting of the Pentecostal hymn. The text speaks of the Holy Spirit coming to bring peace and comfort to the faithful. Poulenc's music is more serene and contemplative in this movement, with gentle harmonies and a flowing melody that evokes the sense of the Holy Spirit's presence. The final movement, "Veni Creator," is a setting of the hymn to the Holy Spirit. The text speaks of the Holy Spirit as the source of all wisdom and understanding. Poulenc's music is more complex and intricate in this movement, with intricate harmonies and rhythms that reflect the depth and complexity of the text. The movement ends with a triumphant section that celebrates the power and majesty of the Holy Spirit. Overall, "Timor et tremor, FP 97/1" is a powerful and moving choral work that captures the sense of fear, anxiety, and hope that is present in the text of the Psalms. Poulenc's music is both challenging and rewarding for performers and listeners alike, and it remains a beloved work in the choral repertoire.

More....