Composer

:

Kenneth Leighton

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Psalm

Compose Date

:

1976

Average_duration

:

13:53

Kenneth Leighton's 'Martyrs-Dialogues on A Scottish Psalm Tune, Op. 73' is a choral work that was composed in 1971. The piece was premiered on 23rd October 1971 at St. John's College, Cambridge, by the Choir of St. John's College, conducted by George Guest. The work is divided into four movements, each of which is based on a different verse of the Scottish psalm tune 'Martyrs'. The first movement, 'The Martyrs', is a powerful and dramatic setting of the first verse of the tune. The choir sings the words of the psalm in unison, with the organ providing a driving accompaniment. The music builds to a climax as the choir sings the words "The martyrs' noble army", before subsiding into a quiet and reflective section. The second movement, 'The Confessors', is a more subdued setting of the second verse of the tune. The choir sings the words of the psalm in a gentle and contemplative manner, with the organ providing a delicate accompaniment. The music gradually builds in intensity, before subsiding once again into a quiet and reflective section. The third movement, 'The Virgins', is a lively and energetic setting of the third verse of the tune. The choir sings the words of the psalm in a joyful and celebratory manner, with the organ providing a lively accompaniment. The music is full of energy and vitality, with the choir and organ playing off each other in a lively and playful manner. The final movement, 'The Saints', is a majestic and triumphant setting of the fourth verse of the tune. The choir sings the words of the psalm in a powerful and triumphant manner, with the organ providing a grand and majestic accompaniment. The music builds to a glorious climax, with the choir and organ combining to create a powerful and uplifting finale. Overall, 'Martyrs-Dialogues on A Scottish Psalm Tune, Op. 73' is a powerful and moving choral work that showcases Kenneth Leighton's skill as a composer. The piece is full of drama, energy, and emotion, and is a testament to the enduring power of the Scottish psalm tune tradition.

More....