Glorify!

Instrumentation: SATB Choir, Brass Quintet and Piano
Duration: 4 minutes
Year: 2011 (rev. 2012)

Audio

Program Notes

Glorify!” is a radiant and energetic piece set to the words of King David in his legendary Psalm 34, employing SATB Chorus, Brass Quintet and Piano. The Psalms have been a favorite inspiration for many choral works since the translation of the Bible, and I find them to be a constant inspiration for life and celebration.

I took words from the first 3 verses and wrote three distinct sections of music for them, each different in texture and rhythm. The main subject is set to verse 3: “Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt his name together.” The rhythmic quality of the word “Glorify” led me to set this section in a 3/4 and 3/8 alternating meter, emphasizing the title of the piece. The second verse is slightly more sober but nonethelss energetic: “My soul will boast in the Lord; let the afflicted hear and rejoice.” A motif introduced in the lower brass and piano sets the tone for this darker middle phrase, and alternates with the choir singing in unison. This is followed by a quieter middle section setting the 1st verse, with the choir singing a new subject with staggered entrances.