Composer

:

Arthur Sullivan

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Publication Date

:

1868

Average_duration

:

6:09

"The Strain Upraise" is a choral work composed by Arthur Sullivan in 1877. It was premiered on May 12, 1877, at the Leeds Festival, with Sullivan conducting. The piece is divided into four movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, marked "Allegro con fuoco," begins with a powerful and dramatic choral entrance. The music is characterized by its driving rhythms and bold harmonies, which create a sense of urgency and excitement. The text of the movement is taken from Psalm 121, and the music reflects the psalm's themes of strength and protection. The second movement, marked "Andante sostenuto," is a stark contrast to the first. The music is slow and contemplative, with a gentle melody that is passed between the choir and soloists. The text is taken from Psalm 42, and the music reflects the psalm's themes of longing and hope. The third movement, marked "Allegro vivace," is a lively and energetic scherzo. The music is characterized by its playful rhythms and syncopated accents, which create a sense of joy and celebration. The text is taken from Psalm 150, and the music reflects the psalm's themes of praise and exultation. The final movement, marked "Allegro maestoso," is a grand and majestic finale. The music is characterized by its soaring melodies and triumphant harmonies, which create a sense of awe and reverence. The text is taken from Psalm 150, and the music reflects the psalm's themes of praise and worship. Overall, "The Strain Upraise" is a powerful and dynamic choral work that showcases Sullivan's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its bold harmonies, driving rhythms, and soaring melodies, which create a sense of drama and excitement. At the same time, the music is also deeply contemplative and reflective, with moments of quiet beauty and introspection.

More....