Composer

:

Charles Villiers Stanford

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Psalm

Average_duration

:

2:33

Charles Villiers Stanford's "Psalm 70 Haste thee O God to deliver me" is a choral work that was composed in 1901. It was premiered on October 22, 1901, at the Birmingham Festival, with the composer conducting the City of Birmingham Choir and Orchestra. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement begins with a somber and mournful introduction, featuring the choir singing in unison. The mood quickly shifts to one of urgency as the choir begins to sing the text of the psalm. The music is characterized by its use of chromaticism and dissonance, which create a sense of tension and unease. The movement ends with a powerful climax, as the choir sings "Let them be turned back and put to confusion that desire my hurt." The second movement is a contrast to the first, with a more peaceful and contemplative mood. The choir sings the text "Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee," with a gentle and flowing melody. The music is characterized by its use of lush harmonies and rich textures, which create a sense of warmth and comfort. The final movement returns to the urgency and intensity of the first. The choir sings the text "But I am poor and needy, make haste unto me, O God," with a sense of desperation and pleading. The music is characterized by its use of driving rhythms and powerful harmonies, which create a sense of urgency and determination. The movement ends with a triumphant climax, as the choir sings "Thou art my help and my deliverer, O Lord, make no tarrying." Overall, "Psalm 70 Haste thee O God to deliver me" is a powerful and emotional work that showcases Stanford's skill as a composer. The use of contrasting moods and textures, as well as the use of chromaticism and dissonance, create a sense of drama and intensity that is characteristic of Stanford's style.

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