Composer

:

Joseph Barnby

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Psalm

Average_duration

:

9:25

Joseph Barnby's "Psalm 69 Salvum me fac" is a choral work that was composed in the late 19th century. It was first premiered in 1872 at the Birmingham Festival, and it quickly became one of Barnby's most popular compositions. The piece is divided into four movements, each of which has its own unique characteristics. The first movement of "Psalm 69 Salvum me fac" is marked "Allegro moderato" and is in a minor key. It begins with a powerful choral introduction that sets the tone for the entire piece. The movement is characterized by its use of dynamic contrasts, with the choir alternating between loud and soft passages. The text of the movement is taken from the first verse of Psalm 69, which is a plea for salvation. The second movement is marked "Andante con moto" and is in a major key. It features a solo soprano voice singing the text "I am weary of my crying, my throat is dry." The choir provides a gentle accompaniment, with the music gradually building in intensity as the movement progresses. The movement is characterized by its use of chromaticism, which adds a sense of tension and drama to the music. The third movement is marked "Allegro vivace" and is in a major key. It features a lively choral fugue, with the choir singing the text "Let not the waterflood drown me." The movement is characterized by its use of counterpoint, with the different vocal parts weaving in and out of each other. The music is energetic and joyful, reflecting the text's message of hope and salvation. The final movement is marked "Allegro maestoso" and is in a major key. It features a triumphant choral finale, with the choir singing the text "Let the heaven and earth praise him." The movement is characterized by its use of grand, sweeping melodies and powerful choral harmonies. The music builds to a climactic finish, with the choir and orchestra coming together in a glorious celebration of praise. Overall, "Psalm 69 Salvum me fac" is a powerful and dramatic choral work that showcases Joseph Barnby's skill as a composer. Its use of dynamic contrasts, chromaticism, counterpoint, and grand melodies make it a memorable and moving piece of music.

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