Composer

:

Peter Hallock

Genre

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Miscellaneous

Style

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Miscellaneous

Average_duration

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2:56

'Let my prayer come up as the incense' is a choral work composed by Peter Hallock, an American composer, organist, and choirmaster. The piece was composed in 1956 and premiered in the same year by the Compline Choir at St. Mark's Episcopal Cathedral in Seattle, Washington. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement is marked "Andante con moto" and is characterized by a flowing, chant-like melody in the soprano and alto voices. The tenor and bass voices provide a rich harmonic foundation, with occasional dissonances adding tension and interest to the texture. The movement builds to a climax before subsiding into a peaceful, prayerful conclusion. The second movement is marked "Adagio" and is more introspective in character. The melody is carried by the tenor and bass voices, with the sopranos and altos providing a gentle, ethereal accompaniment. The harmonies are more complex in this movement, with frequent modulations and unexpected chord progressions. The movement ends quietly, with a sense of unresolved tension. The final movement is marked "Allegro moderato" and is the most joyful and exuberant of the three. The melody is carried by the sopranos and altos, with the tenors and basses providing a rhythmic accompaniment. The harmonies are bright and colorful, with frequent use of major chords and open fifths. The movement builds to a triumphant conclusion, with all voices joining together in a final, joyful chord. Overall, 'Let my prayer come up as the incense' is a beautiful and expressive choral work that showcases Hallock's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its flowing melodies, rich harmonies, and sense of prayerful contemplation. It is a fitting addition to any choral repertoire and continues to be performed by choirs around the world.

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