Symphony of Psalms
Igor Stravinsky
Work background
Researched classical background
Stravinsky's Symphony of Psalms places the chorus within an unusual orchestra that omits violins and violas while adding two pianos. Three connected movements set Latin psalm texts through austere chordal writing, counterpoint, and repeated patterns. The final movement's praise is not simply loud celebration: its closing music becomes measured and restrained. The work joins symphonic organization to a devotional text without using a conventional soloist-led oratorio format.
Inspiration and creative background
The chosen Latin psalm texts and the score's dedication to the glory of God document its devotional basis.
Symphony of Psalms - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
A listening guide
Compare the chorus's compact statements with the instrumental counterpoint, then notice the restraint of the closing praise.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Mixed chorus and orchestra with two pianos; no violins or violas
Composition: 1930; revised 1948
The original commission and composition date are distinct from the later revision.
This entry describes the musical work or cycle. Composition, premiere and publication dates describe different events. Performers and recordings can be explored through the external listening search.
Symphony of Psalms - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Symphony of Psalms - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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