Composer

:

Thomas Weelkes

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Anthem

Publication Date

:

1966

Average_duration

:

3:14

Thomas Weelkes was an English composer who lived from 1576 to 1623. He was a contemporary of William Byrd and Orlando Gibbons, and was known for his contributions to the English madrigal genre. One of his most famous works is the anthem "O Lord, arise," which was composed in the early 17th century. "O Lord, arise" is a sacred choral work that was likely composed for use in the Anglican Church. It is a setting of Psalm 12, which is a prayer for deliverance from the wicked. The piece is written for four-part choir, with the soprano, alto, tenor, and bass voices each singing their own lines. The anthem is divided into three movements. The first movement is a slow and solemn introduction, in which the choir sings the words "O Lord, arise, help us, and deliver us for thy name's sake." The second movement is faster and more lively, with the choir singing "Thou art my God, O Lord." The third movement returns to the slower tempo of the first, with the choir repeating the opening words of the piece. One of the most notable characteristics of "O Lord, arise" is its use of harmony. Weelkes was known for his innovative use of harmony in his madrigals, and this is evident in "O Lord, arise" as well. The piece features rich, complex harmonies that create a sense of depth and emotion. Another characteristic of the piece is its use of word painting. Weelkes was skilled at setting text to music in a way that emphasized the meaning of the words. For example, in the second movement of "O Lord, arise," the choir sings the words "Thou shalt keep us from this generation for ever." The music here is bright and joyful, reflecting the sense of hope and protection conveyed by the text. "O Lord, arise" was likely premiered in the early 17th century, although the exact date is unknown. It has since become a staple of the Anglican choral repertoire, and is still performed in churches and concert halls around the world today.

More....