Composer

:

Henry Purcell

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Ode

Compose Date

:

1689

Average_duration

:

23:36

Movement_count

:

16

Movement ....

"Now does the glorious day appear" is a sacred anthem composed by Henry Purcell in 1694. It was written for the Feast of St. Cecilia, the patron saint of music, and was first performed at St. Bride's Church in London on November 22, 1694. The anthem is divided into three movements. The first movement is a lively and joyful chorus, with the choir singing "Now does the glorious day appear, / The saint's triumphant holiday." The music is characterized by its energetic rhythms and bright harmonies, reflecting the celebratory nature of the occasion. The second movement is a duet for two sopranos, accompanied by a continuo of cello and organ. The singers express their gratitude to St. Cecilia for her intercession on their behalf, singing "Thanks to these lonesome vales, / These deserts and these rocks, / Where oft we've sung her praise, / And worn out many hours in sacred talks." The music is more introspective and contemplative than the first movement, with a slower tempo and more complex harmonies. The final movement is a grand chorus, with the choir and instruments joining together in a triumphant expression of praise and thanksgiving. The text, taken from Psalm 150, reads "In loud exalted strains / Let us sing our Maker's praise, / And with melodious sounds / Bless the Lord's holy name." The music is characterized by its majestic harmonies and powerful rhythms, building to a thrilling climax as the choir and instruments unite in a glorious finale. Overall, "Now does the glorious day appear" is a masterful example of Purcell's skill in composing sacred music. Its lively rhythms, complex harmonies, and powerful choral writing make it a fitting tribute to St. Cecilia and a testament to Purcell's enduring legacy as one of England's greatest composers.

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