Psalm 29

General Information:

Liturgical Uses:  Reflection on God's might
This psalm was not written as a responsorial psalm within the liturgical cycle.  Rather the inspiration of the musical setting came from the source as the psalmist's inspiration.  Watching the approaching storm across the desert, he saw the winds, the lighting and fires, and in the torrents of rain the awe-inspiring mighty power of God.

Refrain:      
"Give glory, give glory and praises to the Lord."                  

Verses:     
1) The voice of the Lord is over the waters.
The glory of God thunders.
A voice of might and majesty,
A voice which shakes the cedars of Lebanon,
And all in God's temple sing:  Glory, glory to the Lord!"

2)  The voice of the Lord is over the waters.
The glory of God thunders.
A voice which strikes the fiery flow,
A voice which shakes the land under the desert,
A voice which twists the mighty oaks,
A voice which shakes the land under the wilderness,
And all in God's temple sing:  Glory, glory to the Lord!"

Synopsis
Praise God, the Creator,
Whose majesty's revealed in torrent and storm.

Benediction
God bless your people with peace.
Mighty ruler grant your people peace.
May the torrent turn tranquil:  peace.
Mighty God, grant your people peace.                    

Arrangement:

Vocal:                             
Refrain:  Unison
Verses:   Cantor   
Snyopis:  2nd Cantor
Benediction:  SSA schola 

Instruments:                
Piano with guitar and bass; optional synth, wood flutes/recorders, rainstick

Availability:

Sheet Music:                
Lead sheet with piano part.
Order from Wood Harbor Music

Recorded Versions:
In progress.  Personnel:

Composer's Notes:
The recording starts with an instrumental depiction of the desert wilderness before the storm.  I included some "not-well-tempered" instruments (e.g., wood flutes) to give the sense of the wildness of nature.  The verses require a near-operatic performance by a strong mezzo to provide the strength and intensity that the pieces requires.

All in all, this is not a setting for a typical responsorial psalm, but rather better suited for a concert or time of reflection where it can be well-rehearsed.

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