Composer

:

Charles Villiers Stanford

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Psalm

Average_duration

:

4:22

Charles Villiers Stanford's 'Psalm 147 O praise the Lord' is a choral work that was composed in 1902. It was premiered on 22nd October 1902 at the Leeds Festival, where it was performed by the Leeds Festival Chorus and the Hallé Orchestra, conducted by the composer himself. The work is divided into four movements, each of which has its own unique characteristics. The first movement, marked 'Allegro moderato', begins with a lively orchestral introduction that sets the tone for the entire work. The choir enters with the words "O praise the Lord, for it is a good thing to sing praises unto our God", and the music is characterized by its joyful and celebratory nature. The movement features a number of choral fugues, which are expertly crafted and showcase Stanford's skill as a composer. The second movement, marked 'Andante', is a more reflective and introspective section of the work. The choir sings the words "The Lord doth build up Jerusalem", and the music is characterized by its gentle and flowing melodies. The orchestration is particularly effective in this movement, with the strings providing a lush and warm backdrop for the choir. The third movement, marked 'Allegro vivace', is a lively and energetic section of the work. The choir sings the words "He sendeth out his word, and melteth them", and the music is characterized by its rhythmic drive and sense of urgency. The movement features a number of intricate choral passages, which are expertly executed by the choir. The final movement, marked 'Allegro maestoso', is a triumphant and majestic section of the work. The choir sings the words "Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem", and the music is characterized by its grandeur and sense of awe. The movement features a number of powerful choral climaxes, which are underpinned by the rich and vibrant orchestration. Overall, 'Psalm 147 O praise the Lord' is a masterful choral work that showcases Stanford's skill as a composer. The work is characterized by its joyful and celebratory nature, as well as its intricate choral writing and lush orchestration. It remains a popular choice for choirs and orchestras around the world, and is a testament to Stanford's enduring legacy as one of the great British composers of the 20th century.

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