Composer

:

Franz Joseph Haydn

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Te Deum

Compose Date

:

before 1800

Average_duration

:

8:33

Franz Joseph Haydn's 'Grosses Te Deum, H. 23c/2' is a choral work that was composed in 1800. It was premiered on September 8, 1800, at the Esterházy Palace in Eisenstadt, Austria. The work is divided into three movements, and it is approximately 15 minutes in length. The first movement of the 'Grosses Te Deum' is marked 'Allegro con spirito' and is in the key of C major. It begins with a fanfare-like introduction in the brass and timpani, followed by the choir's entrance with the words "Te Deum laudamus" (We praise thee, O God). The movement is characterized by its energetic and joyful nature, with the choir and orchestra trading off melodic material. The second movement, marked 'Adagio', is in the key of F major. It begins with a solo quartet singing the words "Te ergo quaesumus" (We therefore pray thee), followed by the full choir. The movement is characterized by its solemn and prayerful nature, with the choir and orchestra providing a rich and harmonious backdrop for the soloists. The final movement, marked 'Allegro', is in the key of C major. It begins with a lively and rhythmic orchestral introduction, followed by the choir's entrance with the words "In te, Domine, speravi" (In thee, O Lord, have I trusted). The movement is characterized by its celebratory and triumphant nature, with the choir and orchestra building to a grand finale. Overall, the 'Grosses Te Deum' is a magnificent work that showcases Haydn's mastery of choral and orchestral writing. Its three movements provide a range of emotions and moods, from joyful praise to solemn prayer to triumphant celebration. It remains a beloved work in the choral repertoire to this day.

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