Musical contribution - September 2019

(LiVE sample set: Manchester, Hill)

Psalm 38 Lennert Knops (Geb. 1982)

From time to time, we try to offer psalm arrangements. These arrangements are appreciated not only by Dutch organists, but also by those from far beyond our borders. This month we’re offering the 38th, a lamentation by David.

We’ll have the composer tell you about it himself:

I noted this psalm in 2015, after preparing for a church service in which it was to be sung. The plaintive melody and the E minor key provide the psalm with a musical interpretation of the text. The melody of the Aria is derived from the first six tones of the choral melody. Using overwrought chords in the harmonization of the accompaniment further highlights the content of the psalm.

Lennert has indicated the registration requirements himself. However, please note that playing a 16’ alone in the pedal board will not yield a tone. That is, if there is no 8’ labial on the pedal board, you will need to use a pedal coupler with the manual on which the accompaniment is being played.

Incidentally, Lennert has recorded this arrangement himself on the CD “Orgeltour door Nederland” (“Organ tour of the Netherlands”). For more information, I recommend visiting his website www.lennertmaria.nl.

Best regards,

André