Composer

:

Leonard Bernstein

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Psalm

Compose Date

:

1965

First Performance

:

1965

Average_duration

:

18:13

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Chichester Psalms is a choral work composed by Leonard Bernstein in 1965. It was commissioned by the Very Reverend Walter Hussey, Dean of Chichester Cathedral in England, for the Southern Cathedrals Festival. The piece was premiered on July 15, 1965, at the Chichester Cathedral, with Bernstein conducting the London Symphony Orchestra and the Chichester Cathedral Choir. The work is divided into three movements, each based on a different psalm. The first movement is based on Psalm 108 and features a lively and rhythmic opening section, followed by a more contemplative middle section. The movement ends with a return to the energetic opening theme. The second movement is based on Psalm 23 and is a serene and peaceful setting of the well-known text. The third movement is based on Psalm 131 and is a joyful and celebratory setting of the text. One of the most distinctive characteristics of Chichester Psalms is its use of Hebrew text. Bernstein chose to set the psalms in their original Hebrew rather than in English translation, which was unusual for a choral work at the time. The use of Hebrew gives the piece a unique and exotic flavor, and Bernstein's setting of the text is both sensitive and expressive. Another notable characteristic of Chichester Psalms is its use of a mixed choir. The piece is scored for a choir of men and boys, as well as a solo boy soprano. This combination of voices gives the work a rich and varied texture, and Bernstein makes full use of the different vocal ranges and timbres. Overall, Chichester Psalms is a vibrant and uplifting work that showcases Bernstein's skill as a composer and conductor. Its use of Hebrew text and mixed choir make it a unique and memorable addition to the choral repertoire.

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