Composer

:

Charles Villiers Stanford

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

4:35

'Glorious and Powerful God, Op. 135/3' is a choral work composed by Charles Villiers Stanford. The piece was composed in 1910 and premiered on May 4th of the same year at the Birmingham Festival. The work is part of a larger collection of choral works called 'Three Motets, Op. 135', which also includes 'Justorum Animae' and 'Coelos Ascendit Hodie'. 'Glorious and Powerful God' is a four-movement work that showcases Stanford's mastery of choral composition. The first movement, marked 'Allegro con fuoco', is a powerful and energetic setting of the text "Glorious and powerful God, who hast created all things, and fillest them with thy presence". The movement features a driving rhythm and soaring melodies that build to a thrilling climax. The second movement, marked 'Andante', is a more contemplative setting of the text "Thou hast made us for thyself, and our hearts are restless until they find their rest in thee". The movement features lush harmonies and a gentle, flowing melody that evokes a sense of peace and tranquility. The third movement, marked 'Allegro moderato', is a joyful setting of the text "O sing unto the Lord a new song, for he hath done marvelous things". The movement features lively rhythms and playful melodies that capture the exuberance of the text. The final movement, marked 'Allegro con brio', is a triumphant setting of the text "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he hath visited and redeemed his people". The movement features bold harmonies and majestic melodies that build to a grand finale. Overall, 'Glorious and Powerful God' is a stunning example of Stanford's skill as a choral composer. The work showcases his ability to create music that is both powerful and contemplative, joyful and triumphant. It remains a beloved piece in the choral repertoire to this day.

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