Composer

:

Henry Purcell

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Anthem

Compose Date

:

ca. 1681

Average_duration

:

6:34

"Hear me, O Lord, and that soon, Z. 13B" is a sacred choral composition composed by Henry Purcell, one of the most celebrated English composers of the Baroque era. This piece is a setting of Psalm 102, and it was likely composed around 1680. $$$The composition is written for four voices (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass) and is typically performed by a choir accompanied by an organ. It is a relatively short piece, consisting of only one movement. $$$The composition begins with a solemn and plaintive introduction, setting the tone for the psalm's plea for divine intervention. The voices enter one by one, each singing the same melodic line, creating a sense of unity and urgency. The harmonies are rich and expressive, reflecting the emotional depth of the text. $$$Purcell's setting of the psalm is characterized by his mastery of word painting. He skillfully matches the music to the meaning of the text, emphasizing certain words or phrases through melodic and rhythmic devices. For example, when the psalmist implores, "Hide not thy face from me," the voices sing a descending melodic line, conveying a sense of despair and longing. $$$The composition also showcases Purcell's skill in creating dramatic contrasts. The music alternates between moments of quiet introspection and powerful, full-voiced sections. These contrasts serve to heighten the emotional impact of the text and create a sense of tension and release. $$$Overall, "Hear me, O Lord, and that soon, Z. 13B" is a poignant and deeply expressive choral composition. It showcases Purcell's mastery of vocal writing and his ability to convey the emotional depth of the text through music. Its concise structure and powerful musical language make it a compelling and moving piece in the sacred choral repertoire.

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