Maurice Greene, born in London in 1696, was an English composer and organist who played a significant role in the musical landscape of the Baroque era. A student of William Boyce, Greene later succeeded him as the organist at St. Paul’s Cathedral and eventually became the Master of the King’s Music.
Greene’s compositional output includes a variety of genres, from sacred choral works to instrumental pieces, reflecting the stylistic transition from late Baroque to early Classical music in England. As a prominent figure in 18th-century English music, Greene’s contributions extended beyond his creative work to include pedagogical endeavours, notably as a professor at the newly established Royal Academy of Music.
“Lord, Let Me Know Mine End” is a poignant anthem composed by Maurice Greene in the anthem tradition of the English Baroque. Completed in 1735, the work reflects Greene’s mastery of choral writing and his ability to convey profound emotional depth within a liturgical setting.
The anthem follows a structured and intricate polyphonic design, typical of the Baroque period. Greene employs a rich harmonic language, enhanced by expressive dissonances, to underscore the profound nature of the text, which is drawn from Psalm 39.
The anthem unfolds through a series of contrasting sections, including fugal passages and reflective moments, showcasing Greene’s adept handling of vocal and choral textures. His sensitive approach to word painting, coupled with a careful balance of expressive intensity and formal restraint, makes “Lord, Let Me Know Mine End” a captivating example of Greene’s contribution to the English Baroque choral tradition.
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