Composer

:

Charles Ives

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1898

Publication Date

:

1968

Average_duration

:

2:21

'God Bless and Keep Thee, S. 256' is a choral work composed by Charles Ives in 1908. The piece was premiered in 1910 by the choir of the First Presbyterian Church in Bloomfield, New Jersey. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is marked "Andante con moto" and is characterized by a gentle, flowing melody in the choir. The accompaniment is sparse, with occasional chords on the piano and organ. The movement is in a simple ABA form, with the middle section featuring a solo soprano singing the text "The Lord bless thee and keep thee." The second movement is marked "Allegretto" and is more lively than the first. The choir sings in a more rhythmic, staccato style, with the accompaniment featuring syncopated rhythms on the piano and organ. The middle section of this movement features a solo tenor singing the text "The Lord make his face to shine upon thee." The final movement is marked "Andante maestoso" and is the most grandiose of the three. The choir sings in a full, rich harmony, with the accompaniment featuring sweeping arpeggios on the piano and organ. The middle section of this movement features a solo alto singing the text "The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee." Overall, 'God Bless and Keep Thee, S. 256' is a beautiful and uplifting choral work that showcases Ives' skill in composing for voices. The piece is characterized by its simple yet effective melodies, sparse accompaniment, and use of solo voices to highlight certain sections of the text.

More....