Composer

:

Bohuslav Martinu

Genre

:

Vocal

First Performance

:

1998

Average_duration

:

2:42

Bohuslav Martinu's "Pisen nabozna" (A Religious Song) is the third song in his "Songs for a Friend of My Country" series. The composition was completed in 1939, during Martinu's exile in Paris, and premiered in the same year in Prague. The song is written for voice and piano, and its text is a religious poem by the Czech poet Jan Neruda. The song is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked "Andante," and it begins with a simple, hymn-like melody in the piano. The voice enters with the first line of the poem, "O God, my God, how great is thy love," and the melody gradually builds in intensity as the singer repeats the phrase "how great is thy love" several times. The movement ends with a quiet, contemplative section in which the singer repeats the phrase "O God, my God" over a gentle piano accompaniment. The second movement is marked "Allegro," and it is a lively, dance-like section. The piano introduces a playful, syncopated melody, and the singer enters with the words "Thou art my strength and my shield." The melody is full of unexpected twists and turns, and the singer's voice soars over the piano accompaniment. The movement ends with a sudden, dramatic pause. The final movement is marked "Andante," and it is a return to the hymn-like character of the first movement. The piano introduces a new melody, and the singer enters with the words "O God, my God, how great is thy mercy." The melody is simple and beautiful, and the singer's voice is full of emotion as she sings the words "how great is thy mercy." The movement ends with a quiet, peaceful section in which the singer repeats the phrase "O God, my God" over a gentle piano accompaniment. Overall, "Pisen nabozna" is a beautiful and moving composition that showcases Martinu's skill as a composer. The three movements each have their own distinct character, but they are united by a common theme of faith and devotion. The melody is simple and memorable, and the piano accompaniment is both supportive and expressive. It is a testament to Martinu's talent that he was able to create such a powerful work in the midst of his exile and personal turmoil.

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