Composer

:

Hubert Parry

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Anthem

Compose Date

:

1902

Average_duration

:

6:05

"I Was Glad (Psalm 122)" is a choral anthem composed by Hubert Parry in 1902. It was written for the coronation of King Edward VII and has since become a staple of British choral music. The piece is set for a large choir with organ accompaniment and is divided into three movements. The first movement begins with a majestic organ introduction, followed by the choir singing the opening words of Psalm 122, "I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord." The music builds in intensity as the choir sings of the joy and excitement of going to worship in the temple. The movement ends with a triumphant "Jerusalem, Jerusalem, built as a city that is at unity in itself." The second movement is a quieter, more reflective section. The choir sings of the peace and prosperity of Jerusalem, and the organ provides a gentle accompaniment. The music is more contemplative, with a sense of reverence and awe. The final movement returns to the triumphant mood of the first. The choir sings of the glory of Jerusalem and the power of God. The organ provides a grand accompaniment, with fanfares and flourishes. The music builds to a climax, with the choir singing "Peace be within thy walls, and plenteousness within thy palaces." The piece ends with a majestic "Amen." "I Was Glad" is a quintessentially British piece of music, with its grandeur and sense of tradition. It has been performed at many important national events, including the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953 and the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton in 2011. The piece is a testament to Parry's skill as a composer and his ability to capture the spirit of a nation in music.

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