Composer

:

Ned Rorem

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Average_duration

:

11:52

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

'Prayers (4)' is a choral work composed by Ned Rorem in 1972. The piece was premiered on May 7, 1972, by the Gregg Smith Singers at the Church of the Holy Trinity in New York City. The work consists of four movements, each of which is a setting of a prayer from different religious traditions. The first movement, "Ave Maria," is a setting of the traditional Catholic prayer to the Virgin Mary. Rorem's setting is characterized by its simple, chant-like melody and gentle harmonies, which create a sense of reverence and devotion. The second movement, "Shema," is a setting of the Jewish prayer that affirms the unity of God. Rorem's setting is marked by its rhythmic vitality and use of syncopation, which give the music a lively, dance-like quality. The third movement, "Allah Akbar," is a setting of the Islamic call to prayer. Rorem's setting is characterized by its use of modal melodies and exotic harmonies, which evoke the mystical and spiritual aspects of the Islamic tradition. The final movement, "Our Father," is a setting of the Christian prayer that Jesus taught his disciples. Rorem's setting is marked by its soaring melodies and lush harmonies, which create a sense of awe and wonder. Overall, 'Prayers (4)' is a deeply spiritual work that reflects Rorem's interest in exploring the commonalities and differences between different religious traditions. The piece is characterized by its simple, direct melodies and harmonies, which allow the beauty and power of the prayers themselves to shine through.

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