PSALM 20

Gesualdo Consort of Amsterdam performing from a different editionA new performance edition for a cappella SATB chorus of J. P. Sweelinck‘s Psalm 20 for 4 voices, from his 1st Book of Psalms (Pseaumes de David, Livre 1), published in 1604. Includes both French and English texts, and piano reduction for rehearsal. The text is a versification of the Psalm, translated as:
_____May the Lord hear your prayer
_____In this your sorrow.
_____The God of Jacob defend you.
_____In your adversity.
_____From heaven may He hear your cry
_____All your tears to dry.
_____From Zion’s holy mountain,
_____May He keep and sustain you.

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.

DURATION: 2:35