Psalm Preludes, Set 1, Op. 32 by Herbert Howells

Howells is arguably the most beloved composer of the Anglican choral tradition in our present day. He studied with other renowned names in the field, such as Charles Villiers Stanford, Hubert Parry, and Charles Wood, no doubt developing his own style under the influence of these giants. Composed in 1915-16, the first set of Psalm Preludes by Herbert Howells reflect a number of tumultuous events in the composer’s life. The first World War had broken out, and at the age of 23, Howells was diagnosed with Graves’ disease and given six months left to live. Because of his poor prognosis, he was prevented from being conscripted in the war, while many of his friends left to fight on the battlefield. He sought comfort in the Psalms, from which he selected three verses. The third Psalm Prelude from this set perhaps best sums up these tribulations: it begins with a heavy, plodding, repeating bass line, harmonized by a dark melodic line featuring the quietest sounds of the organ. It is reminiscent of a fateful bell tolling: a reminder of one’s inevitable mortality. As the piece progresses, the textures and harmonies become more dense, overlapping and overwhelming the listener. The chords stack and expand until it reaches a climax; here the organ is magnificently loud and thunderous, contrary to the opening. After this battle comes acceptance, when the tension releases and the organ cascades down to its original softness, but this time with an embracing sense of peace. Howells died in 1983, at the age of 90.