Composer

:

Dave Brubeck

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Dave Brubeck's "The Commandments" is a jazz suite composed in 1999. It premiered on April 16, 2000, at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City. The suite consists of ten movements, each inspired by one of the Ten Commandments. The first movement, "Thou Shalt Not Kill," is a somber and reflective piece that features a haunting melody played by the saxophone. The second movement, "Thou Shalt Not Steal," is a lively and upbeat piece that features a swinging rhythm and playful solos. The third movement, "Thou Shalt Not Commit Adultery," is a sultry and sensual piece that features a slow and seductive melody played by the piano. The fourth movement, "Thou Shalt Not Bear False Witness," is a fast-paced and frenetic piece that features complex rhythms and intricate solos. The fifth movement, "Honor Thy Father and Mother," is a tender and heartfelt piece that features a simple and beautiful melody played by the trumpet. The sixth movement, "Remember the Sabbath Day," is a joyous and celebratory piece that features a lively and energetic rhythm and playful solos. The seventh movement, "Thou Shalt Not Covet Thy Neighbor's Wife," is a moody and introspective piece that features a melancholy melody played by the saxophone. The eighth movement, "Thou Shalt Not Covet Thy Neighbor's Goods," is a playful and whimsical piece that features a bouncy rhythm and playful solos. The ninth movement, "Thou Shalt Not Make Unto Thee Any Graven Image," is a contemplative and meditative piece that features a simple and beautiful melody played by the piano. The final movement, "Love Thy Neighbor as Thyself," is a joyful and uplifting piece that features a lively and energetic rhythm and playful solos. Overall, "The Commandments" is a masterful work of jazz that showcases Dave Brubeck's incredible talent as a composer and pianist. Each movement is unique and memorable, and the suite as a whole is a powerful and moving tribute to the Ten Commandments.

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