Composer

:

Amy Beach

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1936

Publication Date

:

1937

Average_duration

:

2:27

"I Sought the Lord, Op. 142" is a choral work composed by Amy Beach, an American composer and pianist. The piece was composed in 1924 and premiered on May 22, 1925, in Boston, Massachusetts. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, marked "Andante con moto," begins with a solo soprano voice singing the opening line of Psalm 34:4, "I sought the Lord, and He heard me." The choir then enters, singing in unison, and the music gradually builds in intensity. The movement features lush harmonies and a soaring melody, with the choir and soloist trading off lines of text. The second movement, marked "Adagio," is a more introspective and contemplative section. The choir sings the text of Psalm 34:6, "This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him." The music is characterized by long, sustained chords and a sense of stillness and calm. The soloist enters midway through the movement, singing a plaintive melody that rises and falls in intensity. The final movement, marked "Allegro con fuoco," is a triumphant and joyful section. The choir sings the text of Psalm 34:7, "The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them." The music is characterized by fast, rhythmic passages and a sense of exultation. The soloist enters near the end of the movement, singing a soaring melody that brings the work to a thrilling conclusion. Overall, "I Sought the Lord, Op. 142" is a powerful and moving choral work that showcases Amy Beach's skill as a composer. The piece is notable for its lush harmonies, soaring melodies, and sense of spiritual uplift. It remains a beloved work in the choral repertoire to this day.

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