Psalm 47

Description

Soprano 1, Soprano 2, Alto 1, Alto 2 — Psalm 47xa0was commissioned by the Sigma Alpha Iota Chapter of Hardin Simmons University (Abilene, Texas), Suzanne Watts, conductor, back in 1978. I was a graduate student at the time, and the premiere was a great success. Consequently, the work has received many performances since that time; however, it remained unpublished until now.In a modified tripartite structure, the psalmist uses the imperative verb tense as a command to the people:xa0 (you clap), (you shout), (you sing) to exemplify that praise and joy should be public, intelligent, cheerful, and constant. The psalmist admonishes that praise and joy are visual, aural, palpable, and most definitely contagious. The contrasting slow section with a soprano solo should be like an accompanied arioso, where the soloist is supported by lush, major/minor seventh chords in inversion (accompanied recitative). The soloist actually becomes the narrator in this section, the preacher or deliverer of the news that the people will be protected, sustained and blessed. The rapid tempo of the A-section returns and the staggered entrances in the last section/coda indicate the ecstasy knowing that belief can manifest itself in individualized, energized, emotional responses that can change the world.Rise up and claim the power of JOY! Bold, joyful and proclamatory, Ratledge beautifully captures melodically and rhythmically the spirit in the message from this powerful Psalm setting. For advanced treble choirs,Psalm 47will challenge and satisfy. Suitable for both concert and festival.

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