Composer

:

Herbert Howells

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Psalm

Average_duration

:

5:06

Herbert Howells' Psalm 39, "I said I will take heed to my ways," was composed in 1955 and premiered on October 25th of the same year at St. Paul's Cathedral in London. The piece is a setting of the text from Psalm 39, which reflects on the fleeting nature of human life and the importance of living in a way that is pleasing to God. The piece is divided into three movements, each of which reflects a different aspect of the text. The first movement is marked "Moderato," and begins with a solo voice singing the opening lines of the psalm. The choir then enters, singing in unison, before breaking into four-part harmony. The movement is characterized by its gentle, flowing melody and the use of rich harmonies. The second movement, marked "Allegro," is more energetic and rhythmic than the first. The choir sings in a lively, syncopated rhythm, with the melody moving quickly between the different parts. The movement is marked by its use of dynamic contrasts, with the choir alternating between loud, forceful sections and quieter, more reflective moments. The final movement, marked "Lento," is the most contemplative of the three. The choir sings in a slow, mournful melody, with the harmonies shifting between major and minor keys. The movement is marked by its use of dissonance, with the choir singing in close harmony that creates a sense of tension and unease. Overall, Psalm 39 is a powerful and moving piece of choral music that reflects on the fleeting nature of human life and the importance of living in a way that is pleasing to God. Howells' use of rich harmonies, dynamic contrasts, and shifting tonalities creates a sense of depth and complexity that makes the piece both challenging and rewarding to perform.

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