Composer

:

Percy Whitlock

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Psalm

Average_duration

:

1:51

Percy Whitlock's "Psalm 137: By the Waters of Babylon" is a choral work that was composed in 1930. It was premiered in the same year at St. Stephen's Church in Bournemouth, England. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement begins with a slow and mournful introduction, featuring the choir singing the words "By the waters of Babylon, there we sat down and wept." The music gradually builds in intensity, with the choir singing in harmony and the organ providing a rich accompaniment. The movement ends with a powerful climax, as the choir sings the words "If I forget thee, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forget her cunning." The second movement is more upbeat and lively, with the choir singing the words "Let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth, if I remember thee not." The music is more rhythmic and dance-like, with the organ providing a lively accompaniment. The movement ends with a joyful and triumphant climax, as the choir sings the words "Remember, O Lord, the children of Edom in the day of Jerusalem." The third and final movement is a return to the mournful and reflective mood of the first movement. The choir sings the words "O daughter of Babylon, who art to be destroyed, happy shall he be that rewardeth thee as thou hast served us." The music is slow and somber, with the organ providing a mournful accompaniment. The movement ends with a quiet and reflective coda, as the choir sings the words "Happy shall he be that taketh and dasheth thy little ones against the stones." Overall, "Psalm 137: By the Waters of Babylon" is a powerful and emotional choral work that showcases Whitlock's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its rich harmonies, powerful climaxes, and reflective moments of introspection. It remains a popular choice for choirs and audiences alike, and is considered one of Whitlock's most enduring works.

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