Composer

:

Ernest Walker

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Average_duration

:

4:37

"I will lift up mine eyes" is a choral work composed by Ernest Walker, a British composer, pianist, and conductor. The piece was composed in 1917 and premiered in the same year. It is a part of the larger work, "African Suite," which was composed by Walker in 1915. "I will lift up mine eyes" is a four-movement choral work that is characterized by its use of African rhythms and melodies. The first movement, "I Will Lift Up Mine Eyes," is a slow and contemplative piece that features a solo soprano voice. The second movement, "The Lord is My Shepherd," is a lively and rhythmic piece that features a call-and-response between the choir and soloists. The third movement, "The Lord's Prayer," is a simple and beautiful setting of the well-known prayer. The final movement, "Hallelujah," is a joyful and celebratory piece that features a full choir and orchestra. The piece is characterized by its use of African rhythms and melodies, which were a hallmark of Walker's style. He was one of the first British composers to incorporate African music into his compositions, and "I will lift up mine eyes" is a prime example of this. The piece is also notable for its use of solo voices, which add a sense of intimacy and personal connection to the work. Overall, "I will lift up mine eyes" is a beautiful and moving choral work that showcases Ernest Walker's unique style and his pioneering use of African music in classical compositions. Its premiere in 1917 was a significant moment in British music history, and the piece continues to be performed and enjoyed by audiences around the world today.

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