Composer

:

Arthur Wills

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Anthem

Compose Date

:

1965

Average_duration

:

1:59

'Their sound is gone out' is a choral work composed by Arthur Wills, an English organist and composer. The piece was composed in 1974 and premiered in the same year at King's College Chapel, Cambridge. The work is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a biblical text. The first movement is based on Psalm 19:4, "Their sound is gone out into all lands". The second movement is based on Psalm 85:10, "Mercy and truth are met together". The final movement is based on Psalm 98:4, "Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth". The first movement begins with a fanfare-like introduction, followed by a choral section that features a lively and rhythmic melody. The second movement is more contemplative, with a slower tempo and a more subdued melody. The final movement is the most exuberant of the three, with a fast tempo and a joyful melody that is repeated throughout the piece. One of the characteristics of 'Their sound is gone out' is its use of antiphonal singing, where the choir is divided into two groups that sing back and forth to each other. This creates a sense of space and depth in the music, as if the sound is coming from different directions. The piece also features a variety of vocal textures, from unison singing to complex harmonies, which adds to its richness and complexity. Overall, 'Their sound is gone out' is a vibrant and uplifting choral work that showcases Arthur Wills' skill as a composer. Its use of biblical texts and antiphonal singing make it a powerful and memorable piece that is often performed in churches and concert halls around the world.

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