Composer

:

William Walton

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

1938

Average_duration

:

3:24

"Set me as a seal upon thine heart" is a choral work composed by William Walton in 1936. It was premiered on 23rd June 1936 at the coronation of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth in Westminster Abbey, London. The piece is a setting of text from the Song of Solomon, a book of the Old Testament, and is one of Walton's most popular choral works. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked "Moderato e tranquillo" and begins with a gentle, flowing melody in the sopranos. The other voices gradually join in, building to a climax before subsiding back into the gentle opening theme. The movement ends with a quiet, peaceful cadence. The second movement is marked "Allegro con fuoco" and is much more energetic than the first. The choir sings in a rhythmic, syncopated style, with the melody passing between the different voices. The movement builds to a frenzied climax before abruptly ending on a single chord. The final movement is marked "Lento, ma non troppo" and is the most contemplative of the three. The choir sings in a homophonic style, with all voices moving together in harmony. The melody is simple and beautiful, with a sense of longing and yearning. The movement builds to a powerful climax before ending on a quiet, peaceful note. Overall, "Set me as a seal upon thine heart" is a beautiful and moving choral work that showcases Walton's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its lush harmonies, flowing melodies, and powerful climaxes, and is a testament to the enduring power of sacred music.

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