Songs of Matthew
Alvez Barkoskie IV
About this work:
I. Look at the Birds is based on Matthew 6: 26-34.
II. It is Written is bassed on Matthew 4: 4, 6-7, 8-10.
III. I Will Give You Rest is bassed on Matthew 11:28-30.
Songs of Matthew sets some of my favorite scriptures from the Gospel of Matthew. The first and last songs have rather comforting text, as the middle song about Jesus’ temptation by Satan in the desert, provides a drastic contrast. The first song reminds men and women not to worry about the small things in life, for even though the birds do not sow or reap, the Lord still feeds them. The second song is a dialogue between Jesus and Satan, discussing what is right and wrong. Finally, the last song, “I Will Give You Rest,” is an attempt to capture a sense of celestial serenity and eternity. The song has an inviting text for men and women to lay down his and her burdens, somewhat reiterating the message in “Look at the Birds.”
Year composed: 2006
Duration: 00:15:00
Ensemble type: Voice, Solo or With Chamber or Jazz Ensemble:Voice with Chamber/Jazz Ensemble, 2-5 Players
Instrumentation: 1 Flute, 1 Piano, 1 Cello, 1 High Voice
Instrumentation notes: High Voice: Soprano or Tenor