Stepan Davydov's dramatic setting of "O be joyful, thou new city of Jerusalem" is an excellent example of Davydov's operatic compositional style. Written in three distinct sections, this work draws its energy from the text. The opening and ending sections set at 'Allegro Moderato' are contrasted by the slower middle movement, with its long, sinuous soli lines. Although written for the consecration of a church, this work is appropriate for festivals throughout the church year.
Publication Date: September 1994
Difficulty: Medium Difficult/Difficult
Voice: SATB w/some divisi
Accompaniment: a cappella
Church: Cathedral