Composer

:

Ned Rorem

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1962

Average_duration

:

8:33

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Ned Rorem's 'Psalms (2) and a Proverb' is a choral work that was composed in 1972. The piece was premiered on May 6, 1973, by the New York Choral Society at Carnegie Hall in New York City. The work is divided into three movements, each of which sets a different text from the Bible. The first movement sets Psalm 23, which is one of the most well-known and beloved psalms. Rorem's setting of this text is gentle and contemplative, with the choir singing in a homophonic style. The music is characterized by its flowing, lyrical lines and its use of rich harmonies. The movement ends with a quiet, peaceful cadence that reflects the psalm's message of comfort and reassurance. The second movement sets Psalm 130, which is a psalm of penitence and supplication. Rorem's setting of this text is more complex than the first movement, with the choir singing in a contrapuntal style. The music is characterized by its use of dissonance and tension, which reflect the psalm's message of sorrow and longing. The movement ends with a powerful climax that expresses the psalmist's hope for redemption. The third movement sets Proverbs 3:1-6, which is a passage that encourages wisdom and obedience to God. Rorem's setting of this text is joyful and exuberant, with the choir singing in a lively, rhythmic style. The music is characterized by its use of syncopation and shifting meters, which reflect the passage's message of energy and enthusiasm. The movement ends with a triumphant cadence that expresses the joy of following God's path. Overall, 'Psalms (2) and a Proverb' is a beautiful and expressive choral work that showcases Rorem's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its rich harmonies, lyrical melodies, and expressive use of text painting. It is a powerful expression of faith and devotion that continues to resonate with audiences today.

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