Composer

:

Richard Runciman Terry

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

2:58

'Hark what a sound, and too divine for hearing' is a choral work composed by Richard Runciman Terry in 1924. The piece was premiered on December 23, 1924, at Westminster Cathedral in London, England. It is a four-movement work that is based on the text of John Milton's poem "On the Morning of Christ's Nativity." The first movement, "Prologue," is a short and solemn introduction that sets the tone for the rest of the piece. The second movement, "The Shepherds Sing," is a lively and joyful section that depicts the shepherds singing and dancing in celebration of the birth of Christ. The third movement, "The Wise Men," is a more contemplative section that reflects the journey of the wise men to Bethlehem and their adoration of the newborn king. The final movement, "Epilogue," is a triumphant and majestic conclusion that celebrates the glory of Christ's birth. The piece is characterized by its use of rich harmonies, intricate counterpoint, and expressive melodies. Terry's use of chromaticism and dissonance creates a sense of tension and drama that is resolved in the final movement. The choral writing is demanding, with frequent changes in tempo, dynamics, and texture. The piece also features a prominent organ part that adds to the grandeur and majesty of the work. Overall, 'Hark what a sound, and too divine for hearing' is a powerful and moving choral work that captures the spirit of Christmas and the wonder of Christ's birth. Its intricate harmonies and expressive melodies make it a challenging but rewarding piece for choirs to perform.

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