Composer

:

Bernard Rose

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

2:20

'Lord I have Loved (Psalm 26)' is a choral work composed by Bernard Rose, an English composer and organist. The piece was composed in 1956 and premiered in the same year at the Three Choirs Festival in Worcester, England. The piece is divided into three movements, each reflecting a different aspect of the psalm. The first movement is marked "Moderato" and begins with a unison choral statement of the opening text, "Lord, I have loved the habitation of thy house." The music is characterized by a gentle, flowing melody and rich harmonies, which gradually build in intensity as the choir repeats the text. The movement ends with a quiet, reflective section, as the choir sings "Gather not my soul with sinners." The second movement is marked "Allegro" and is more lively and rhythmic than the first. The choir sings "Examine me, O Lord, and prove me" in a lively, syncopated rhythm, accompanied by a lively organ part. The music is characterized by its energy and drive, as the choir sings of their desire to be tested and purified by God. The final movement is marked "Andante" and is the most reflective and introspective of the three. The choir sings "I will wash my hands in innocency" in a gentle, flowing melody, accompanied by a soft organ part. The music gradually builds in intensity as the choir repeats the text, before ending with a quiet, reflective section as the choir sings "My foot standeth in an even place." Overall, 'Lord I have Loved (Psalm 26)' is a beautiful and expressive choral work, characterized by its rich harmonies, flowing melodies, and reflective tone. It is a testament to Bernard Rose's skill as a composer and his ability to capture the essence of the psalm in his music.

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