Composer

:

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach

Genre

:

Vocal

Compose Date

:

1773-1774

Publication Date

:

1774

Average_duration

:

2:04

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach's 'Psalm 19' (Cramer Psalmen no. 7), H. 733/7, Wq. 196/7 is a choral work composed in 1774. It was premiered in Hamburg, Germany, on March 13, 1775, under the composer's direction. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is a setting of the first six verses of Psalm 19. It begins with a lively and energetic instrumental introduction, featuring a prominent horn part. The choir then enters with a joyful and exuberant melody, accompanied by the orchestra. The music is characterized by its use of dynamic contrasts, with sudden shifts between loud and soft passages. The movement ends with a triumphant choral fugue, in which the choir sings the text "The heavens declare the glory of God." The second movement is a setting of verses 7-11 of the same psalm. It begins with a slow and contemplative instrumental introduction, featuring a solo oboe. The choir then enters with a more subdued melody, accompanied by the orchestra. The music is characterized by its use of chromatic harmonies and expressive melodic lines. The movement ends with a quiet and introspective choral section, in which the choir sings the text "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord." The third and final movement is a setting of verses 12-14 of the psalm. It begins with a lively and energetic instrumental introduction, featuring a prominent trumpet part. The choir then enters with a joyful and exuberant melody, accompanied by the orchestra. The music is characterized by its use of syncopated rhythms and lively dance-like melodies. The movement ends with a triumphant choral fugue, in which the choir sings the text "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer." Overall, 'Psalm 19' is a masterful choral work that showcases Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach's skill as a composer. The work is characterized by its use of dynamic contrasts, expressive melodies, and intricate harmonies. It remains a popular piece in the choral repertoire to this day.

More....