Composer

:

Edward Elgar

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Oratorio

Compose Date

:

1905 - 1906

Average_duration

:

95:46

The Kingdom, Op. 51 is an oratorio composed by Edward Elgar between 1901 and 1906. It was premiered on October 3, 1906, at the Birmingham Festival, with Elgar conducting. The oratorio is divided into four movements and is based on the New Testament, specifically the Acts of the Apostles and the Book of Revelation. The first movement, "The Dawn of Time," sets the scene for the oratorio with a depiction of the creation of the world. The music is grand and majestic, with a sense of awe and wonder. The choir sings of the "mighty power" of God and the "glory of His creation." The second movement, "The Upper Room," focuses on the Last Supper and the events leading up to the crucifixion. The music is more introspective and somber, with a sense of foreboding. The choir sings of the betrayal of Jesus by Judas and the agony of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. The third movement, "Pentecost," celebrates the coming of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Christian church. The music is joyful and exuberant, with a sense of celebration. The choir sings of the "mighty rushing wind" and the "tongues of fire" that descended upon the apostles. The final movement, "The Last Judgment," depicts the end of the world and the final judgment of humanity. The music is dramatic and powerful, with a sense of urgency and finality. The choir sings of the "trumpet sound" and the "great white throne" before which all must stand. Overall, The Kingdom, Op. 51 is a grand and powerful work, showcasing Elgar's mastery of choral writing and orchestration. The music is deeply spiritual and emotional, with a sense of reverence and awe for the subject matter. It remains a beloved work in the choral repertoire to this day.

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