Psalm XXIII

Joelle Wallach

About this work:

Joelle Wallach’s setting of the 23rd Psalm is based just a little loosely on the King James’ translation, and uses the oboe or flute to evoke a shepherd’s pipe as the organ or strings create a peaceful, verdant landscape in which the voices can sing a gentle and confident hymn, creating a slightly asymmetrical shape from the strict parallelisms of the structure of the verse. 

[Wallach also has a setting of the 23rd Psalm in Hebrew: V’shamru

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

 

Year composed: 2006
Duration: 00:08:00
Ensemble type: Chorus, with or without Solo Voices:Chorus with Chamber Ensemble
Instrumentation: 1 Bassoon, 1 Organ, 1 Strings (General)
Instrumentation notes: Chorus and EITHER oboe and organ OR oboe and strings

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