George Frideric Handel: He Shall Feed His Flock Like a Shepherd
Messiah Part I
Context
George Frideric Handel’s Messiah has remained one of the composer’s most beloved works. Incredibly, Handel completed this 260-page oratorio in just 24 days during the summer of 1741. The scriptural text was compiled by Charles Jennens, with the source being the King James Bible. The first performance of Messiah was on 13th April 1742, to celebrate Easter.
Initially the oratorio garnered a lukewarm reception from audiences, however the work began to gain popularity over some years, with it now being the go-to work to perform during the Easter period. During this new Messiah exploration on Classicalexburns, blogs will be posted regularly to cover all of the pieces involved in making up this much-loved oratorio.
The Lyrics
He shall feed his flock like
A shepherd
And He shall gather
The lambs with his arm
With his arm
He shall feed his flock like
A shepherd
And He shall gather
The lambs with his arm
With his arm
And carry them in his bosom
And gently lead those
That are with young
And gently lead those
And gently lead those
That are with young
Come unto Him
All ye that labour
Come unto Him, ye
That are heavy laden
And He will give you rest
Come unto Him
All ye that labour
Come unto Him, ye
That are heavy laden
And He will give you rest
Take his yoke upon you
And learn of Him
For He is meek
And lowly of heart
And ye shall find rest
And ye shall find rest
Unto your souls
Take his yoke upon you
And learn of Him
For He is meek
And lowly of heart
And ye shall find rest
And ye shall find rest
Unto your souls
(Isaiah: 40:11 / Matthew 11:28-29)
The Music
Based on texts from both the old and new testaments, He Shall Feed His Flock like a Shepherd is sung by the alto soloist. Reminiscent of the Pifa, this solo is also set in a lulling 12/8 time signature. This aria can also be sung by the soprano if it is moved up to the key of Bb, and it has also been performed as a duet between the two voices. The alto version is perhaps the most popular, with the lower voice really bringing out the meaning of the text. Quiet in dynamic throughout, this penultimate Part I section ends peacefully.
Ⓒ Alex Burns
Happy Reading!
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