Organ and Choir Tutorial - Psalm 133 "Behold how good and joyful a thing it is"

As part of this episode’s rehearsal of Psalm 133, Ralph Allwood talks about the blessings of unity-how precious it is, and how we must hold on to it.
This very short psalm is sung to a chant by Sir Edward Elgar, here presented in the key of A flat (sometimes it is offered in G flat). It’s a simple single chant, with relatively little movement in each part, requiring poised singing and good control of expression.
Organist Mark Shepherd discusses his word painting with Ralph. You’ll hear how Mark uses a descending melodic figure on a solo reed to illustrate the oil running down Aaron’s beard. A high chordal sequence on string celestes depicts the dew of Hermon falling upon the hill of Sion. Ralph explains the fascinating nature of this dew, a natural physical phenomenon that arises in the Holy Land, where it is often very hot and dry. Apparently a refreshing dew falls from time to time, which would be regarded as a blessing by those that experience it.
Read more and watch the video here: viscountorgans.net/psalm-133/
About this Organ Tutorial Series:
One of an organist’s most subtle and sensitive roles is in the accompaniment of psalms and church anthems. In such an accompanying role, one’s job is rarely to stand out as a performer but to create an underlying musical foundation on which the choir’s singing can build.
For this year’s offering, then, we present a series in which the renowned choir director Ralph Allwood teaches the Old Royal Naval College Trinity Laban Chapel Choir about psalm singing, with three lovely anthems thrown in to the bargain.
They’re accompanied ably by Mark Shepherd on the Viscount Regent 356 organ. You’ll hear Mark exercising all his artistic powers in support of the choir.
Crucially we don’t just show you a performance, but take you through the rehearsal process, during which Ralph explains the pieces, discusses word painting with the choir and organist, and leads everyone towards a good final performance.
For more information about this Organ Tutorial Series and more videos visit our website: viscountorgans.net/organ-tuto...

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7:59 Psalm 133 starts