Description
Instrumentation: alto, SATB-Soli ad lib., mixed choir and orchestra
Edition: piano score
Year: 1831
Difficulty: medium
This portrayal of Job’s suffering as a test of his belief in God is dramatically and expressively. Its symmetrical form (Chorus, Alto-Recit., Trio, Alto-Recit., Chorus) can be seen as symbolic and the question “Was ist der Mensch?” (What is human beeing?), which is expressed in several melodic-harmonic variations in the opening chorus, seems to symbolically represent the search for the answer. The recitative and arioso call for four solo voices but a choral performance of these sections is also possible. Performance material available on hire./ Scoring: strings, 2.2.2.2.-2.2.0.0, Timp
