Purcell – Lord, how long wilt thou be angry? (1682) 

Henry Purcell (1659–1695), an eminent figure in the English Baroque era, remains celebrated for his profound contributions to both sacred and secular music. Born into a musical family, Purcell’s prodigious talent led him to become the organist at Westminster Abbey at the age of 20. His legacy encompasses a wealth of compositions, reflecting a unique synthesis of English and continental European styles that profoundly influenced the late 17th-century musical landscape. 
 
Purcell’s anthem “Lord, How Long Wilt Thou Be Angry?” stands as a poignant example of his choral compositions. Written for a cappella choir, the anthem reflects Purcell’s mastery of expressive and emotionally charged writing. Composed for liturgical use, it navigates through themes of repentance and divine forgiveness. Scholars exploring this anthem delve into Purcell’s ingenious use of polyphony, textural contrasts, and emotive harmonic language. The piece serves as a focal point for studying Purcell’s ability to convey profound spiritual sentiments within the framework of the English Baroque anthem tradition.