Composer

:

Alexander Goehr

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata

Compose Date

:

1992

Average_duration

:

55:17

Movement_count

:

11

Movement ....

The Death of Moses, Op. 53 is a choral work composed by Alexander Goehr in 1972. It was premiered on 22nd June 1972 at the Aldeburgh Festival, conducted by the composer himself. The work is divided into three movements and is scored for a large orchestra, mixed choir, and soloists. The first movement, titled "The Death of Moses," is a setting of the biblical story of Moses' death. The music is somber and mournful, with the choir singing in a slow and measured pace. The orchestra provides a rich and complex accompaniment, with the use of dissonant harmonies and intricate rhythms. The soloists, who represent Moses and God, sing in a declamatory style, adding to the dramatic effect of the music. The second movement, titled "The Vision of Moses," is a more contemplative and introspective piece. The choir sings in a hushed and reverent tone, with the orchestra providing a gentle and ethereal accompaniment. The soloists sing in a more lyrical style, with the music building to a climax as Moses has his vision of the Promised Land. The final movement, titled "The Burial of Moses," is a grand and majestic piece. The choir sings in a triumphant and celebratory tone, with the orchestra providing a powerful and uplifting accompaniment. The soloists sing in a more operatic style, with the music building to a glorious climax as Moses is laid to rest. Overall, The Death of Moses, Op. 53 is a powerful and moving work that showcases Goehr's skill as a composer. The use of biblical text and the dramatic setting of the music make it a memorable and impactful piece.

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