PSALM 1 Parts I–IV

Gesualdo Consort of Amsterdam, singing from a different editionJ. P. Sweelinck’s Psalm 1, from his 3rd Book of Psalms (Pseaumes de David, Livre 3), published in 1614. Parts I–IV are included in this complete edition. Part I, which works well by itself, is published separately. Piano reduction for rehearsal is included.
The French text is a versification of the Psalm, Part I translated as:
_____Who the council of the wicked has avoided,
_____Who fears not those convicted of evil deeds,
_____Who sits not with scornful mockers,
_____But night and day contemplates and accepts the Law
_____Of the Lord, and in it delights.
_____Certainly this is true happiness.

Sweelinck composed four books of polyphonic choral Psalms between 1604 and 1621. They were not intended to be sung in church services, but rather in home gatherings and by groups of amateur singers and instrumentalists (collegia musica). Thus, the style is rhythmically nuanced, often syncopated, and full of sparkling energy and poignant reflection.

DURATION: 7:00