Composer

:

Louis Spohr

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Psalm

Compose Date

:

1832

Publication Date

:

1833

Average_duration

:

17:15

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Louis Spohr's 'Psalms (3) for soloists & double chorus, Op. 85' is a choral work that was composed in 1836. The piece was premiered in Kassel, Germany, on December 4, 1836, with Spohr himself conducting. The work consists of three movements, each based on a different psalm from the Bible. The first movement is based on Psalm 23, which is one of the most well-known and beloved psalms. The movement begins with a solo soprano singing the opening lines of the psalm, "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want." The chorus then enters, singing the same text in harmony. The movement is characterized by its gentle, pastoral mood, which reflects the peaceful and comforting nature of the psalm. The second movement is based on Psalm 130, which is a psalm of penitence and supplication. The movement begins with a solo tenor singing the opening lines of the psalm, "Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O Lord." The chorus then enters, singing the same text in a somber and mournful tone. The movement is characterized by its intense emotional depth, which reflects the profound sense of longing and desperation expressed in the psalm. The third and final movement is based on Psalm 150, which is a psalm of praise and thanksgiving. The movement begins with a solo bass singing the opening lines of the psalm, "Praise ye the Lord. Praise God in his sanctuary." The chorus then enters, singing the same text in a joyful and exuberant manner. The movement is characterized by its lively and celebratory mood, which reflects the exultant nature of the psalm. Overall, Spohr's 'Psalms (3) for soloists & double chorus, Op. 85' is a masterful choral work that showcases the composer's skill in setting sacred texts to music. The piece is notable for its rich harmonies, expressive melodies, and sensitive treatment of the psalms' various moods and themes. It remains a beloved work in the choral repertoire to this day.

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