Composer

:

Harold Darke

Genre

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

3:08

"O gladsome light" is a choral anthem composed by Harold Darke in 1915. It is a setting of the ancient Christian hymn "Phos Hilaron," which is traditionally sung at Vespers in the Eastern Orthodox Church. The piece is written for four-part choir (SATB) and organ accompaniment. The anthem is divided into three movements. The first movement begins with a gentle organ introduction, followed by the choir singing the first verse of the hymn in unison. The second movement features a solo soprano singing the second verse of the hymn, accompanied by the choir singing softly in the background. The final movement is a triumphant setting of the third verse of the hymn, with the choir singing in four-part harmony and the organ providing a powerful accompaniment. Darke's setting of "O gladsome light" is characterized by its lush harmonies and expressive melodies. The piece is notable for its use of chromaticism and richly textured harmonies, which create a sense of depth and complexity. The solo soprano part in the second movement is particularly beautiful, with its soaring melody and delicate phrasing. "O gladsome light" was premiered in 1915 at St. Michael's Church in Cornhill, London, where Darke was the organist and choirmaster. The piece quickly became popular and has since been performed by choirs around the world. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Darke's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that speaks to the human spirit.

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