Composer

:

Edward Bairstow

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

ca. 1910

Average_duration

:

6:37

Edward Bairstow's 'If the Lord had not helped me' is a choral work that was composed in 1924. It was premiered in the same year at the Leeds Festival. The piece is written for a four-part choir and is based on Psalm 124. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement is marked 'Allegro moderato' and is in a lively 6/8 time signature. The choir sings in unison for the first few bars before breaking into four-part harmony. The music is joyful and celebratory, reflecting the text of the psalm which speaks of the Lord's help in times of trouble. The movement ends with a triumphant 'Amen'. The second movement is marked 'Andante con moto' and is in a slower 4/4 time signature. The music is more reflective and introspective, with the choir singing in a more subdued manner. The text of the psalm speaks of the Lord's protection from enemies, and the music reflects this with a sense of calm and security. The movement ends with a quiet 'Amen'. The final movement is marked 'Allegro vivace' and is in a fast 2/2 time signature. The music is energetic and lively, with the choir singing in a more animated manner. The text of the psalm speaks of the Lord's deliverance from danger, and the music reflects this with a sense of urgency and excitement. The movement ends with a rousing 'Amen'. Overall, Bairstow's 'If the Lord had not helped me' is a powerful and uplifting choral work that showcases the composer's skill in writing for voices. The music is well-suited to the text of the psalm, with each movement capturing a different aspect of the Lord's protection and deliverance. The work remains a popular choice for choirs today, and is a testament to Bairstow's enduring legacy as a composer.

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