How many movements does Chichester Psalms have?
three movements
Chichester Psalms, choral work in three movements by the American composer Leonard Bernstein, who conducted its premiere on July 15, 1965, at England’s Chichester Cathedral, which had commissioned the piece. It is scored for orchestra, chorus, and a boy alto soloist.
Why did Bernstein write the Chichester Psalms?
Hussey was hoping that Bernstein would feel unrestrained for composing in a more popular vein despite the sacred nature of the assignment. Bernstein composed Chichester Psalms amid a busy schedule, completing his first work since the Third Symphony, Kaddish, in 1963, written in memory of President Kennedy.
Who commissioned Chichester Psalms and what was Bernstein’s process?
“In that same year, Bernstein was commissioned by the Very Rev Walter Hussey of the Cathedral of Chichester to write something for their annual Grand Music Festival which included three cathedrals: Winchester, Salisbury, and Chichester, a collaboration dating from the seventeenth century.
When did Bernstein write Chichester Psalms?
1965
During that time, he managed to complete almost nothing apart from his Kaddish, Symphony No. 3 (1963) and his Chichester Psalms (1965), which together add up to almost exactly one hour of music.
What psalms are Chichester Psalms?
Chichester Psalms is an extended choral composition in three movements by Leonard Bernstein for boy treble or countertenor, choir and orchestra. The text was arranged by the composer from the Book of Psalms in the original Hebrew. Part 1 uses Psalms 100 and 108, Part 2 uses 2 and 23, and Part 3 uses 131 and 133.
What language is Chichester Psalms in?
Hebrew
Chichester Psalms is comprised of three movements, and the libretto is entirely in Hebrew. Each movement is based on the text of a complete Psalm, paired with an excerpt of another Psalm.
How long is Bernstein’s Mass?
The boys’ choir enters Another remarkable number is the chorale “Almighty Father.” Bernstein’s music balances wistful contemplation with skilled handling of voice leading and harmony. It lasts less than two minutes, and it’s remarkable music.