Composer

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Alan Ridout

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Keyboard

Average_duration

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18:20

Alan Ridout's "Seven Last Words" is a choral work that was composed in 1974. It was premiered on Good Friday of the same year at St. Martin-in-the-Fields in London. The piece is divided into seven movements, each of which is based on one of the last seven sayings of Jesus Christ on the cross. The first movement, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do," is a somber and reflective piece that features a solo soprano voice. The second movement, "Today you will be with me in paradise," is a more upbeat and hopeful piece that features a solo tenor voice. The third movement, "Woman, behold your son," is a mournful and contemplative piece that features a solo alto voice. The fourth movement, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" is a dramatic and intense piece that features the full choir. The fifth movement, "I thirst," is a haunting and ethereal piece that features a solo soprano voice. The sixth movement, "It is finished," is a triumphant and powerful piece that features the full choir. The final movement, "Father, into your hands I commend my spirit," is a peaceful and serene piece that features a solo bass voice. Overall, "Seven Last Words" is a deeply emotional and spiritual work that explores the themes of forgiveness, redemption, and salvation. The piece is characterized by its use of solo voices, rich harmonies, and expressive melodies. It is a powerful and moving work that continues to be performed and appreciated by audiences around the world.

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