Lazarus: A Sacred Cantata

John W. Trew

Date of Graduation

Spring 2008

Degree

Master of Music

Department

Music

Committee Chair

John Prescott

Abstract

Lazarus: A Sacred Cantata is a musical composition written for a full symphonic orchestra, soprano, alto, tenor, and bass chorus (SATB), and three vocal soloists. This work is a reflection of in-depth study of music composition techniques for both instruments and voice. The study also demonstrates how to apply Biblical text to music and reflect the emotions found in the story of the resurrection of Lazarus found in the eleventh chapter of the Gospel of John. The composition is intended for collegiate-level performers to be performed in either a church or concert setting. Movement one introduces the story with the friends of Lazarus delivering the news to Jesus that Lazarus is sick. The following six movements explore the emotional responses of Jesus, Mary, Martha and other witnesses to the miracle or the resurrection. The work closes with a triumphant statement, "Lazarus come forth!" Musical themes and motives are introduced throughout the work and recur to unify the entire composition.

Keywords

music score, orchestra, chorus, composition, sacred cantata, musical theme, fugue, chorale, fanfare

Subject Categories

Music

Copyright

© John W. Trew

Citation-only

Dissertation/Thesis

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