Composer

:

Percy Whitlock

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

2:33

'O Living Bread, who once did die' is a choral work composed by Percy Whitlock, an English composer and organist. The piece was composed in 1930 and premiered on Easter Day of the same year at St. Stephen's Church in Bournemouth, England. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, marked "Moderato," begins with a simple and serene melody sung by the choir. The organ then enters with a gentle accompaniment, creating a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere. The movement gradually builds in intensity, with the choir and organ interweaving their melodies and harmonies. The movement ends with a quiet and reflective section, with the choir singing the final lines of the text in unison. The second movement, marked "Allegro," is much more lively and energetic than the first. The choir sings a joyful and celebratory melody, accompanied by the organ's bright and lively chords. The movement is characterized by its rhythmic drive and exuberant energy, with the choir and organ trading off melodies and harmonies. The movement ends with a triumphant and joyful final chord. The final movement, marked "Andante," is the most contemplative and introspective of the three. The choir sings a hauntingly beautiful melody, accompanied by the organ's gentle and ethereal harmonies. The movement is characterized by its sense of longing and yearning, with the choir and organ creating a sense of spiritual longing and searching. The movement ends with a quiet and peaceful final chord, leaving the listener with a sense of spiritual fulfillment and peace. Overall, 'O Living Bread, who once did die' is a beautiful and moving choral work that showcases Whitlock's skill as a composer and organist. The piece is characterized by its sense of spiritual contemplation and reflection, with each movement exploring a different aspect of the Easter story.

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