Composer

:

Richard Shephard

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Anthem

Average_duration

:

5:02

"And when the builders laid the foundations of the Temple of the Lord" is a choral work composed by Richard Shephard. It was composed in 1995 and premiered in the same year by the choir of York Minster. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement begins with a slow and solemn introduction, setting the tone for the piece. The choir then enters with a unison chant, which gradually builds in intensity as more voices are added. The text for this movement is taken from the book of Ezra in the Old Testament, describing the laying of the foundation for the Temple of the Lord. The music reflects the weighty significance of this event, with rich harmonies and a sense of grandeur. The second movement is more lively and rhythmic, with a faster tempo and a more upbeat feel. The text for this section is taken from Psalm 122, which speaks of the joy and excitement of going up to the house of the Lord. The music reflects this sense of celebration, with lively rhythms and a sense of movement. The final movement returns to the solemnity of the opening, with a slower tempo and more contemplative feel. The text for this section is taken from the book of Haggai, which speaks of the glory of the new Temple and the promise of God's presence. The music reflects this sense of awe and reverence, with soaring melodies and rich harmonies. Overall, "And when the builders laid the foundations of the Temple of the Lord" is a powerful and moving choral work, with a sense of grandeur and reverence that reflects the significance of the Temple in the Jewish faith. Shephard's use of rich harmonies and soaring melodies creates a sense of awe and wonder, while the lively rhythms and celebratory feel of the second movement add a sense of joy and excitement.

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