Composer

:

Thomas Arne

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1761

Publication Date

:

1761

Thomas Arne's "Judith" is an oratorio composed in 1764. It premiered on March 2, 1764, at the Covent Garden Theatre in London. The oratorio is divided into three movements and tells the story of Judith, a biblical heroine who saves her people from the Assyrian army by seducing and beheading their general, Holofernes. The first movement, "The Siege of Bethulia," sets the scene with a chorus of Israelites lamenting their impending doom at the hands of the Assyrians. Judith enters and sings a solo aria, "O thou that tellest good tidings to Zion," in which she reassures the Israelites that God will deliver them from their enemies. The second movement, "The Banquet of Holofernes," depicts Judith's seduction of the Assyrian general. The music is sensual and seductive, with Judith singing arias such as "Come, my Holofernes, come" and "With fond desiring eyes." The movement ends with Judith beheading Holofernes and presenting his head to the Israelites. The final movement, "The Triumph of Judith," celebrates the Israelites' victory over the Assyrians. The chorus sings "Sing unto the Lord a new song," and Judith sings a solo aria, "I will sing unto the Lord," in which she praises God for his deliverance. Arne's "Judith" is characterized by its dramatic and emotional music, which effectively conveys the story's tension and passion. The oratorio also features a strong female protagonist in Judith, who is portrayed as a brave and resourceful leader. Overall, "Judith" is a powerful and engaging work that showcases Arne's skill as a composer.

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