Composer

:

Felix Mendelssohn

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Psalm

Compose Date

:

Nov 15, 1830

Publication Date

:

1835

First Performance

:

Nov 19, 1834

Average_duration

:

17:11

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Felix Mendelssohn composed Psalm 115 Non Nobis, Domine, Op. 31 in 1830. The piece was premiered on March 22, 1832, in Berlin, Germany. The composition is divided into three movements, with the first and third movements being choral and the second movement being an instrumental interlude. The first movement begins with a solemn and majestic choral introduction, with the choir singing the Latin text "Non nobis, Domine, non nobis, sed nomini tuo da gloriam" (Not to us, Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory). The choir then sings a fugue, with the different voices entering one by one, creating a complex and intricate texture. The movement ends with a reprise of the opening choral theme. The second movement is an instrumental interlude, with the orchestra playing a lively and joyful melody. The music is characterized by its light and playful character, with the strings and woodwinds taking turns to play the main theme. The third movement is a choral setting of the text "Domine, quid dicam de te?" (Lord, what shall I say of you?). The choir sings in a more subdued and contemplative manner, with the music reflecting the introspective nature of the text. The movement ends with a reprise of the opening choral theme, this time with a more triumphant and joyful character. Overall, Psalm 115 Non Nobis, Domine, Op. 31 is a masterful composition that showcases Mendelssohn's skill in writing for choir and orchestra. The piece is characterized by its intricate counterpoint, rich harmonies, and expressive melodies, and is a testament to Mendelssohn's status as one of the greatest composers of the Romantic era.

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