Composer

:

Sergei Taneyev

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Psalm

Compose Date

:

1912 - 1915

Publication Date

:

1923

Average_duration

:

65:19

Sergei Taneyev's 'At the Reading of a Psalm, Op. 36' is a choral work that was composed in 1897. The piece was premiered in Moscow on March 1, 1898, by the Russian Choral Society, with Taneyev himself conducting. The work is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a different psalm. The first movement is based on Psalm 104 and is marked 'Allegro moderato'. It begins with a lively and energetic choral introduction, which is followed by a solo soprano singing the first verse of the psalm. The choir then joins in, singing the remaining verses in a joyful and celebratory manner. The movement ends with a return to the opening material, bringing the piece to a rousing conclusion. The second movement is based on Psalm 116 and is marked 'Andante con moto'. It begins with a solo tenor singing the first verse of the psalm, accompanied by a gentle and flowing choral background. The choir then takes over, singing the remaining verses in a more subdued and introspective manner. The movement ends with a return to the opening material, but with a more subdued and contemplative tone. The third and final movement is based on Psalm 33 and is marked 'Allegro vivace'. It begins with a lively and rhythmic choral introduction, which is followed by a solo alto singing the first verse of the psalm. The choir then joins in, singing the remaining verses in a joyful and exuberant manner. The movement ends with a return to the opening material, bringing the piece to a triumphant and joyful conclusion. Overall, 'At the Reading of a Psalm, Op. 36' is a masterful choral work that showcases Taneyev's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its lively and energetic rhythms, its use of solo voices, and its joyful and celebratory tone. It remains a popular work in the choral repertoire to this day.

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