Composer

:

Bern Herbolsheimer

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

2002

Average_duration

:

21:41

Movement_count

:

7

Movement ....

Seven Last Words is a choral work composed by Bern Herbolsheimer in 1993. The piece was premiered on April 2, 1993, at St. James Cathedral in Seattle, Washington. The composition is divided into seven movements, each corresponding to one of the last seven phrases spoken by Jesus Christ on the cross. The first movement, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do," is a somber and mournful piece that sets the tone for the rest of the work. The second movement, "Today you will be with me in paradise," is a more hopeful and uplifting piece that features a solo soprano. The third movement, "Woman, behold your son... Behold your mother," is a duet between a tenor and a baritone that explores the relationship between Mary and Jesus. The fourth movement, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" is a powerful and emotional piece that features a solo baritone. The fifth movement, "I thirst," is a haunting and introspective piece that features a solo mezzo-soprano. The sixth movement, "It is finished," is a triumphant and celebratory piece that features the full choir and orchestra. The final movement, "Father, into your hands I commend my spirit," is a peaceful and serene piece that brings the work to a close. Throughout the composition, Herbolsheimer employs a variety of musical techniques, including polyphony, homophony, and counterpoint, to create a rich and complex sound. Overall, Seven Last Words is a powerful and moving work that explores the themes of sacrifice, redemption, and forgiveness. Through its seven movements, Herbolsheimer takes the listener on a journey through the final moments of Jesus Christ's life, inviting them to reflect on the meaning and significance of his death.

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