Composer

:

Herbert Howells

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1976

Average_duration

:

4:09

Herbert Howells' "Antiphon" is a choral work that was composed in 1953. It was premiered on October 22, 1953, at the Three Choirs Festival in Hereford, England. The piece is divided into four movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, "Salvator Mundi," is a prayer to Christ, asking for salvation and mercy. The music is slow and contemplative, with the choir singing in unison for much of the movement. The harmonies are rich and complex, with dissonances that create a sense of tension and release. The second movement, "Sancte Deus," is a hymn to the Holy Spirit. The music is more lively and rhythmic than the first movement, with the choir singing in four-part harmony. The harmonies are still complex, but there is a sense of joy and celebration in the music. The third movement, "Hosanna to the Son of David," is a setting of the Palm Sunday text. The music is more dramatic and intense than the previous movements, with the choir singing in a call-and-response style. The harmonies are still complex, but there is a sense of urgency and excitement in the music. The final movement, "Antiphon," is a setting of the text "Let all the world in every corner sing." The music is joyful and exuberant, with the choir singing in four-part harmony. The harmonies are simpler than in the previous movements, but there is a sense of triumph and celebration in the music. Overall, "Antiphon" is a complex and beautiful choral work that showcases Howells' mastery of harmony and counterpoint. The music is both contemplative and celebratory, with a sense of reverence and awe throughout. It is a testament to Howells' skill as a composer and his deep faith in God.

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