Composer

:

Maurice Greene

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Anthem

Compose Date

:

1736

Average_duration

:

8:05

Maurice Greene's "How Long Wilt Thou Forget Me, O Lord, for Ever?" is a sacred choral work that was composed in the early 18th century. The piece was first performed in 1730 and is considered one of Greene's most significant works. It is a setting of Psalm 13, which is a lamentation that expresses the psalmist's feelings of abandonment and despair. The piece is divided into four movements, each of which reflects a different aspect of the psalmist's emotional journey. The first movement is a somber and mournful setting of the opening lines of the psalm, in which the psalmist asks God how long he will be forgotten. The second movement is more hopeful, with the psalmist expressing his trust in God's mercy and salvation. The third movement is a lively and joyful setting of the psalmist's declaration that he will sing to the Lord, even in the midst of his troubles. The final movement returns to the somber mood of the opening, with the psalmist once again expressing his despair and pleading for God's help. One of the most striking characteristics of "How Long Wilt Thou Forget Me, O Lord, for Ever?" is its use of harmony and counterpoint. Greene was a master of polyphonic writing, and the piece features intricate and complex vocal lines that weave together to create a rich and textured sound. The piece also makes use of dynamic contrasts, with sudden shifts from quiet and introspective passages to loud and exultant ones. Overall, "How Long Wilt Thou Forget Me, O Lord, for Ever?" is a powerful and moving work that captures the emotional depth and complexity of the psalmist's lament. Its intricate harmonies and masterful polyphonic writing make it a standout example of sacred choral music from the Baroque era.

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