Charles Villiers Stanford's sacred repertoire for solo voice, choir, and organ: An analysis of "Six Bible Songs and Hymns", Opus 113

Abstract

This paper explores aspects of Sir Charles Villiers Stanford's life and music, with an emphasis on his sacred works for solo voice, choir, and organ, and an analysis of the Six Bible Songs and Hymns or Chorales (to follow the Bible songs), Opus 113 for baritone solo, SATB choir, and organ. The second chapter is a brief biography of significant events and major accomplishments in Stanford's life. The third chapter provides an overview of his compositional style, with an emphasis on the defining characteristics of his vocal music. The fourth chapter focuses on Stanford's sacred vocal music, particularly his contribution to the liturgy and service of the Anglican Church. In chapter four, a discussion of Stanford's works for solo voice, choir, and organ will include: (1) the Evening Service in G, Opus 81, for soprano and baritone soloists, choir, and organ, (2) the virtually unknown cantata Awake my heart, Opus 16, for baritone, choir, and organ, and (3) an introduction to Stanford's Six Bible Songs and Hymns, Opus 113, discussing the genesis of the work, and its unique position within the repertoire of the Anglican Church. The fifth chapter is a detailed analysis of the Six Bible Songs and Hymns that investigates musical aspects of Stanford's score, but also the history of the cycle's texts and hymn tunes, as well as performance and other extra musical considerations. A concluding sixth chapter will discuss the publication history and performance practices of the Six Bible Songs and Hymns , Opus 113.