Composer

:

Arvo Pärt

Genre

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

2007

Average_duration

:

4:43

"The Deer's Cry" is a choral work composed by Estonian composer Arvo Pärt in 2008. The piece is based on a text attributed to St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, and is also known as "St. Patrick's Breastplate." The premiere of the work was given by the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir under the direction of Tõnu Kaljuste on October 16, 2008, in Tallinn, Estonia. The piece is divided into seven movements, each of which is based on a different phrase from the text. The first movement, "I arise today," sets the tone for the piece with a simple, chant-like melody sung by the choir in unison. The second movement, "Christ with me," features a more complex choral texture, with overlapping phrases and harmonies that create a sense of depth and richness. The third movement, "Christ before me," is a quiet and contemplative section that features a solo soprano voice singing a simple melody over a sustained drone in the choir. The fourth movement, "Christ in me," is a more upbeat and rhythmic section that features a driving percussion accompaniment and a lively choral melody. The fifth movement, "I bind unto myself today," is a slower and more introspective section that features a solo tenor voice singing a haunting melody over a sparse choral accompaniment. The sixth movement, "I arise today through a mighty strength," is a triumphant and energetic section that features a full choir singing in unison with a driving percussion accompaniment. The final movement, "Christ be with me," brings the piece to a peaceful and contemplative close, with a simple choral melody and a gentle percussion accompaniment. Overall, "The Deer's Cry" is characterized by its simple, chant-like melodies, rich choral harmonies, and driving percussion accompaniment. The piece is a testament to Pärt's skill as a composer, and his ability to create works that are both deeply spiritual and musically compelling.

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