Composer

:

Felix Mendelssohn

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Psalm

Compose Date

:

Dec 15, 1843 - Feb 1844

Publication Date

:

1849

First Performance

:

Dec 24, 1843 - Mar 29, 1844

Average_duration

:

19:37

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Felix Mendelssohn's 'Psalms (3), Op. 78' is a choral work composed in 1843. It premiered on November 1, 1844, in Leipzig, Germany, with the composer conducting. The work consists of three movements, each based on a different psalm text. The first movement, 'Psalm 2,' is a setting of the text "Why do the nations rage?" It begins with a powerful choral statement, followed by a solo tenor recitative. The choir then returns with a fugue-like section, building to a climax before ending with a quiet, reflective section. The second movement, 'Psalm 43,' is a setting of the text "Judge me, O God." It begins with a solo soprano singing a plaintive melody, which is then taken up by the choir. The movement is characterized by its use of chromatic harmonies and shifting tonal centers, creating a sense of restlessness and uncertainty. The final movement, 'Psalm 22,' is a setting of the text "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" It begins with a mournful solo cello, which is then joined by the choir. The movement is characterized by its use of dissonance and chromaticism, creating a sense of anguish and despair. The movement ends with a quiet, prayerful section, with the choir singing "He hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted." Overall, 'Psalms (3), Op. 78' is a powerful and emotional work, showcasing Mendelssohn's skill as a composer of choral music. Its use of chromaticism and shifting tonal centers foreshadows the music of later composers such as Wagner and Mahler.

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