Composer

:

Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1943

Average_duration

:

42:41

Movement_count

:

15

Movement ....

Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco's 'Sacred Service for the Sabbath Eve, Op. 122' is a choral work that was composed in 1945. The piece was premiered in 1946 at the Wilshire Boulevard Temple in Los Angeles, California. The work is divided into six movements, each of which is based on a different section of the Jewish liturgy. The first movement, 'Ma Tovu', is a setting of the opening prayer that is recited upon entering the synagogue. The music is characterized by a gentle, flowing melody that is sung by the choir in unison. The second movement, 'Bar'chu', is a call to worship that is sung by the cantor. The music is more dramatic and features a soaring melody that is accompanied by the choir. The third movement, 'Sh'ma Yisrael', is a setting of the central prayer of Judaism. The music is characterized by a simple, yet powerful melody that is sung by the choir in unison. The fourth movement, 'V'ahavta', is a setting of the commandment to love God with all one's heart, soul, and might. The music is characterized by a joyful, dance-like melody that is sung by the choir in harmony. The fifth movement, 'Amidah', is a setting of the silent prayer that is recited by the congregation. The music is characterized by a solemn, meditative melody that is sung by the choir in unison. The final movement, 'Adon Olam', is a setting of the closing hymn that is sung at the end of the Sabbath service. The music is characterized by a triumphant, celebratory melody that is sung by the choir in harmony. Overall, Castelnuovo-Tedesco's 'Sacred Service for the Sabbath Eve, Op. 122' is a beautiful and moving work that combines traditional Jewish liturgy with modern choral music. The piece is characterized by its simple yet powerful melodies, its use of harmony and counterpoint, and its ability to evoke a sense of reverence and awe.

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