Composer

:

Franz Joseph Haydn

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

before 1792

Average_duration

:

2:14

"Hallow ev'n, H. 31a/63" is a choral work composed by Franz Joseph Haydn in 1800. It was premiered on November 1, 1800, at the Esterházy Palace in Eisenstadt, Austria. The work consists of four movements and is written for a four-part choir and orchestra. The first movement, "Introitus," is a solemn and majestic setting of the Latin text "Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domine" (Grant them eternal rest, O Lord). The choir sings in unison, accompanied by the orchestra, which provides a rich and full harmonic background. The movement ends with a fugue on the text "Et lux perpetua luceat eis" (And let perpetual light shine upon them). The second movement, "Kyrie," is a lively and energetic setting of the traditional Kyrie text. The choir sings in four parts, with the orchestra providing a rhythmic and melodic accompaniment. The movement features a fugue on the text "Christe eleison" (Christ have mercy). The third movement, "Graduale," is a slow and contemplative setting of the Latin text "Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domine" (Grant them eternal rest, O Lord). The choir sings in four parts, with the orchestra providing a gentle and delicate accompaniment. The movement features a solo soprano singing the text "In memoria aeterna erit iustus" (The just shall be in everlasting remembrance). The final movement, "Offertorium," is a joyful and celebratory setting of the Latin text "Domine Jesu Christe, Rex gloriae" (Lord Jesus Christ, King of glory). The choir sings in four parts, with the orchestra providing a lively and festive accompaniment. The movement features a fugue on the text "Quam olim Abrahae promisisti" (Which you once promised to Abraham). Overall, "Hallow ev'n, H. 31a/63" is a beautiful and moving choral work that showcases Haydn's mastery of choral writing. The work is characterized by its rich harmonies, intricate counterpoint, and expressive melodies. It remains a popular and frequently performed work in the choral repertoire.

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