Composer

:

Charles Wood

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Anthem

Compose Date

:

ca. 1914 - 1915

Average_duration

:

4:15

"O thou the central orb" is a choral anthem composed by Charles Wood, an English composer and organist, in 1912. The piece was premiered on June 22, 1912, at the coronation of King George V and Queen Mary in Westminster Abbey. The anthem is written in four movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement begins with a gentle, flowing melody in the soprano and alto voices, accompanied by a soft organ accompaniment. The tenor and bass voices enter with a more forceful melody, building to a climax before returning to the gentle opening theme. The second movement is a solo for the alto voice, accompanied by a simple organ accompaniment. The melody is mournful and introspective, with a sense of longing and sadness. The third movement is a lively and joyful setting of the text "O Christ, who art the light and day." The melody is upbeat and energetic, with a sense of celebration and praise. The final movement returns to the opening theme, with the soprano and alto voices singing a gentle melody accompanied by a soft organ accompaniment. The tenor and bass voices enter with a more forceful melody, building to a powerful climax before returning to the gentle opening theme once again. Overall, "O thou the central orb" is a beautiful and moving choral anthem, with a range of emotions and musical styles. It is a testament to Charles Wood's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both technically impressive and emotionally powerful.

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