Composer

:

John Rutter

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1981

Average_duration

:

2:49

"The Lord Bless You and Keep You" is a choral composition by John Rutter, a British composer and conductor. It was composed in 1981 and premiered in the same year by the Cambridge Singers, a choir founded and directed by Rutter himself. The piece is a setting of the biblical text from Numbers 6:24-26, which is often used as a benediction in Christian worship services. The text reads: "The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." The composition is written for four-part choir (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass) and is characterized by its simple, yet elegant melody and harmonies. The piece is in the key of E-flat major and is marked "Andante espressivo" (expressively and at a walking pace). The piece is divided into three movements, each corresponding to a different phrase of the biblical text. The first movement sets the words "The Lord bless you and keep you" and features a gentle, flowing melody in the soprano and alto parts, with the tenor and bass parts providing a supportive harmonic foundation. The second movement sets the words "The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you" and is marked by a change in tempo and mood. The melody becomes more expansive and the harmonies more complex, reflecting the idea of God's grace and favor shining upon the listener. The final movement sets the words "The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace" and returns to the gentle, flowing melody of the first movement. The piece ends with a peaceful, reassuring cadence, reflecting the idea of God's peace and presence with the listener. Overall, "The Lord Bless You and Keep You" is a beautiful and uplifting choral composition that has become a staple of Christian worship services and choral performances around the world. Its simple yet profound message of blessing, grace, and peace has resonated with listeners of all backgrounds and beliefs.

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