Hoybye, John: Hope

Easter music

Danish composer John Høybye enjoys great acclaim at home and abroad, not just for his music but also for his work as a (choral) conductor and arranger. Presenting a medium level of difficulty, Hope. Easter Music is suitable for a good amateur choir. The mix of a beautiful choral sound and rhythmic intensity in jazz-inspired phrases is “trademark Høybye”. Primarily written for four voices (SATB), the choral writing subdivides at certain particularly expressive passages to create six- or eight-part harmonies. In addition, the male voices are challenged by several excellently scored four-part passages (TTBB without female voices). The short male-voice solo can be sung instead by the choir if necessary. The instrumental quartet is given ample scope for improvisation. While each of the eight movements has its own unique character, the work forms a cohesive whole. Based on a text by Edward Broadbridge, the movements are linked by the theme of “hope” as well as by recurring musical motifs and themes. This not only makes the piece easier to rehearse, but also ensures its popularity with audiences.