Composer

:

Benjamin Britten

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Hymn

Compose Date

:

1959

Average_duration

:

9:48

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Benjamin Britten's "Purcell Realizations from Harmonia Sacra: Divine Hymns (2) and Alleluia" is a collection of three pieces for choir and organ, based on hymns by the English Baroque composer Henry Purcell. The work was composed in 1945 and premiered on May 6, 1946, at St. George's Church in Hanover Square, London. The first movement, "Divine Hymn I," is a setting of Purcell's hymn "Lord, what is man?" The piece begins with a solemn organ introduction, followed by the choir singing the first verse in unison. The second verse is sung by the choir in four-part harmony, with the organ providing a rich accompaniment. The third verse features a solo soprano singing a descant over the choir's harmonies. The movement ends with a quiet organ postlude. The second movement, "Divine Hymn II," is a setting of Purcell's hymn "Blessed are they that fear the Lord." The piece begins with a lively organ introduction, followed by the choir singing the first verse in unison. The second verse is sung by the choir in four-part harmony, with the organ providing a rhythmic accompaniment. The third verse features a solo tenor singing a descant over the choir's harmonies. The movement ends with a triumphant organ postlude. The final movement, "Alleluia," is a setting of Purcell's hymn "Let God arise." The piece begins with a fanfare-like organ introduction, followed by the choir singing the first verse in unison. The second verse is sung by the choir in four-part harmony, with the organ providing a majestic accompaniment. The third verse features a solo bass singing a descant over the choir's harmonies. The movement ends with a grand organ postlude. Britten's realizations of Purcell's hymns are characterized by his use of rich harmonies, rhythmic vitality, and imaginative organ accompaniments. The pieces are also notable for their use of solo voices to add color and variety to the choir's sound. Overall, "Purcell Realizations from Harmonia Sacra: Divine Hymns (2) and Alleluia" is a masterful tribute to one of England's greatest composers, and a testament to Britten's own skill as a composer and arranger.

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