Composer

:

Darius Milhaud

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Sacred music

Compose Date

:

1947

Publication Date

:

1950

Average_duration

:

62:35

Darius Milhaud's "Service sacre pour le samedi matin, Op. 279" is a sacred work composed in 1947. It premiered in Paris in 1948, with the composer conducting. The piece is divided into three movements: "Kedusha," "Shema Yisrael," and "Torah Service." The first movement, "Kedusha," is a setting of the Hebrew text from the Amidah prayer. Milhaud's music is characterized by its use of polytonality, with different keys and tonalities overlapping and interweaving. The choir sings in Hebrew, with the music alternating between a solemn, chant-like quality and more lively, rhythmic sections. The second movement, "Shema Yisrael," is a setting of the central prayer of Judaism. The music is more introspective and contemplative, with the choir singing in unison and the organ providing a gentle accompaniment. Milhaud's use of dissonance and unconventional harmonies creates a sense of tension and unease, reflecting the seriousness of the text. The final movement, "Torah Service," is a setting of the traditional Jewish liturgy for the reading of the Torah. The music is more celebratory and joyful, with the choir and organ alternating between exuberant, dance-like sections and more contemplative moments. Milhaud's use of syncopated rhythms and lively melodies creates a sense of energy and excitement. Overall, Milhaud's "Service sacre pour le samedi matin" is a unique and innovative work that combines traditional Jewish liturgy with modernist musical techniques. Its use of polytonality, dissonance, and unconventional harmonies reflects the composer's interest in exploring new musical possibilities, while its setting of sacred texts demonstrates his deep respect for Jewish tradition.

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