Composer

:

Thomas Weelkes

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Publication Date

:

1966

Average_duration

:

1:45

"All people clap your hands" is a choral work composed by Thomas Weelkes, an English composer of the Renaissance era. The piece was likely composed in the early 17th century, although the exact date is unknown. It was first performed during Weelkes' lifetime, likely in a church setting. The piece is written for four-part choir, with the voices divided into soprano, alto, tenor, and bass. It is a lively and energetic work, with a fast tempo and a joyful character. The text of the piece is taken from Psalm 47, which celebrates God's sovereignty and calls on all people to praise him. The piece is divided into several movements, each with its own distinct character. The opening movement is a lively and rhythmic setting of the text "All people clap your hands," with the choir singing in unison and then breaking into four-part harmony. The second movement is a slower and more contemplative setting of the text "For the Lord most high is terrible," with the choir singing in a more subdued and reverent manner. The third movement is a lively and rhythmic setting of the text "He shall subdue the people under us," with the choir singing in a joyful and celebratory manner. The fourth movement is a slower and more contemplative setting of the text "God is gone up with a shout," with the choir singing in a more subdued and reverent manner. The final movement is a lively and energetic setting of the text "Sing praises to God, sing praises," with the choir singing in a joyful and celebratory manner. The piece ends with a triumphant and exultant final chord, bringing the work to a rousing conclusion. Overall, "All people clap your hands" is a lively and joyful choral work that celebrates God's sovereignty and calls on all people to praise him. Its energetic rhythms and joyful character make it a popular choice for church choirs and other vocal ensembles.

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