Composer

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Peter Sculthorpe

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Suite

'A Little Book of Hours' is a choral work composed by Peter Sculthorpe, an Australian composer, in 1975. The piece was premiered in Sydney, Australia, in the same year by the Sydney University Chamber Choir, conducted by the composer himself. The work is divided into seven movements, each corresponding to a different time of day and inspired by the traditional Christian liturgical hours. The movements are titled: Matins, Lauds, Prime, Terce, Sext, None, and Compline. Sculthorpe's use of text in 'A Little Book of Hours' is minimal, with only a few words or phrases repeated throughout each movement. Instead, the focus is on the choral textures and harmonies, which are often sparse and ethereal, creating a sense of contemplation and introspection. The first movement, Matins, begins with a low drone in the basses, which gradually builds in intensity as the choir enters with a simple, chant-like melody. Lauds, the second movement, features a solo soprano singing the word "alleluia" over a shimmering, chordal texture. Prime, the third movement, is characterized by a rhythmic, pulsing accompaniment in the lower voices, while the upper voices sing a simple, ascending melody. Terce, the fourth movement, is more complex, with overlapping vocal lines and dissonant harmonies creating a sense of tension and unease. Sext, the fifth movement, is the most energetic of the seven, with a driving rhythm and syncopated vocal lines. None, the sixth movement, is more subdued, with a gentle, flowing melody and a sense of calm. The final movement, Compline, is the most introspective and meditative of the seven. The choir sings a simple, repeated phrase ("into thy hands, O Lord") over a slowly shifting harmonic backdrop, creating a sense of peaceful resignation. Overall, 'A Little Book of Hours' is a hauntingly beautiful work that showcases Sculthorpe's skill at creating evocative choral textures and harmonies. Its sparse, contemplative style makes it a popular choice for religious services and concerts alike.

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