Composer

:

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach

Genre

:

Vocal

Compose Date

:

1773-1774

Publication Date

:

1774

Average_duration

:

2:28

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach composed Psalm 130, also known as Cramer Psalmen no. 36, in 1774. The piece was premiered in Hamburg, Germany, on March 23, 1774. It is a sacred choral work that is divided into four movements. The first movement, marked "Andante," begins with a solo soprano singing the first verse of the psalm in a recitative style. The choir then enters, singing the same verse in a homophonic texture. The movement is characterized by its use of chromaticism and dissonance, which create a sense of tension and urgency. The second movement, marked "Allegro," is a fugue based on the second verse of the psalm. The choir enters one by one, each singing the same melody in a different key. The movement is characterized by its contrapuntal texture and lively tempo. The third movement, marked "Largo," is a duet for soprano and alto based on the third verse of the psalm. The two voices intertwine in a beautiful and expressive melody, accompanied by a simple and elegant string orchestra. The final movement, marked "Allegro assai," is a joyful and triumphant setting of the fourth verse of the psalm. The choir sings in a homophonic texture, with the orchestra providing a lively and energetic accompaniment. The movement is characterized by its use of syncopation and rhythmic drive. Overall, Psalm 130 is a masterful example of Bach's skill in setting sacred texts to music. The piece is characterized by its expressive melodies, intricate harmonies, and skillful use of counterpoint. It remains a beloved work in the choral repertoire to this day.

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