Composer

:

Gustav Holst

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Hymn

Compose Date

:

1908 - 1914

Average_duration

:

38:07

Movement_count

:

14

Movement ....

Gustav Holst's 'Choral Hymns, Op. 26, H. 97-100' is a collection of four hymns for choir and organ. The work was composed between 1906 and 1910 and premiered in 1911. The four movements are based on traditional English hymns and are characterized by Holst's use of modal harmonies and intricate choral textures. The first movement, 'Jesu, Thou the Virgin-Born', is a setting of a 15th-century text by John Mason Neale. The hymn is in a minor mode and features a haunting melody that is passed between the choir and organ. The second movement, 'In the Bleak Midwinter', is a setting of a poem by Christina Rossetti. The hymn is in a major mode and features a lush, romantic melody that is accompanied by rich harmonies. The third movement, 'I Love My Love', is a setting of a traditional folk song. The hymn is in a major mode and features a lively, dance-like melody that is accompanied by rhythmic organ chords. The final movement, 'Seven Joys of Mary', is a setting of a medieval English carol. The hymn is in a major mode and features a joyful, celebratory melody that is accompanied by bright, sparkling harmonies. Overall, Holst's 'Choral Hymns, Op. 26, H. 97-100' is a beautiful and evocative work that showcases the composer's skill in creating intricate choral textures and harmonies. The use of traditional English hymns and folk songs gives the work a timeless quality, while Holst's unique harmonic language adds a modern twist. The work remains a popular choice for choirs and organists today.

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