Composer

:

Wendell Woods

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Psalm

Average_duration

:

8:09

Wendell Woods' "Psalm 119 for chorus & organ" is a choral work that was composed in 1979. The piece was premiered in the same year by the choir of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Indianapolis, Indiana. The work is divided into eight movements, each of which corresponds to a section of the 119th Psalm. The first movement, "Aleph," is marked by a sense of urgency and a driving rhythm. The choir sings the opening lines of the Psalm, "Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord," while the organ provides a pulsing accompaniment. The second movement, "Beth," is more contemplative in nature. The choir sings of the Psalmist's longing for God's guidance and wisdom, while the organ provides a gentle, flowing accompaniment. The third movement, "Gimel," is marked by a sense of joy and celebration. The choir sings of the Psalmist's delight in God's word, while the organ provides a lively, dance-like accompaniment. The fourth movement, "Daleth," is more introspective in nature. The choir sings of the Psalmist's struggles and doubts, while the organ provides a somber, reflective accompaniment. The fifth movement, "He," is marked by a sense of awe and reverence. The choir sings of the greatness of God's word, while the organ provides a majestic, grand accompaniment. The sixth movement, "Vav," is more meditative in nature. The choir sings of the Psalmist's trust in God's promises, while the organ provides a gentle, flowing accompaniment. The seventh movement, "Zayin," is marked by a sense of urgency and intensity. The choir sings of the Psalmist's zeal for God's word, while the organ provides a driving, rhythmic accompaniment. The final movement, "Heth," is a triumphant conclusion to the work. The choir sings of the Psalmist's faithfulness to God's word, while the organ provides a powerful, majestic accompaniment. Overall, "Psalm 119 for chorus & organ" is a rich and varied work that showcases Wendell Woods' skill as a composer. The piece is marked by a sense of reverence and awe for God's word, as well as a deep sense of joy and celebration. The combination of choir and organ creates a powerful and moving sound that is sure to inspire and uplift listeners.

More....