Composer

:

Henry Purcell

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

ca. 1680

Average_duration

:

6:26

Henry Purcell's "Jehova, quam multi sunt, Z. 135" is a sacred choral work that was composed in the late 1680s. It was first performed in 1688 at the Chapel Royal in London, England. The piece is divided into three movements, each of which showcases Purcell's mastery of choral composition. The first movement, "Jehova, quam multi sunt," is a setting of Psalm 139:1-6. It begins with a solo tenor voice singing the opening line, "O Lord, how manifold are thy works." The choir then enters, singing in a homophonic texture that emphasizes the text's praise of God's greatness. The movement features several sections of imitative polyphony, in which the voices echo and overlap each other, creating a rich and complex texture. The second movement, "Et cognovit," is a setting of Psalm 139:7-12. It begins with a duet between two sopranos, who sing in a gentle, flowing melody. The choir then enters, singing in a more complex polyphonic texture that reflects the text's exploration of God's omnipresence. The movement features several sections of imitative polyphony, as well as moments of homophonic texture that emphasize the text's emotional depth. The final movement, "Tunc imponent," is a setting of Psalm 139:19-24. It begins with a solo bass voice singing the opening line, "Surely thou wilt slay the wicked, O God." The choir then enters, singing in a powerful, declamatory style that emphasizes the text's call for justice. The movement features several sections of imitative polyphony, as well as moments of homophonic texture that emphasize the text's emotional intensity. Overall, "Jehova, quam multi sunt, Z. 135" is a stunning example of Purcell's skill as a choral composer. The piece showcases his ability to create complex textures and harmonies, while also emphasizing the emotional depth of the text. Its premiere in 1688 was a testament to Purcell's growing reputation as one of England's most talented composers, and it remains a beloved work in the choral repertoire to this day.

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