Z. RANDALL STROOPE, American composer & conductor; SATBdiv. unacc, sopr. solo; worldwide publisher: www.zrstroope.com; available in e-music only); duration 4:40
COMPOSER'S NOTES (www.zrstroope.com)
Peter (Petrus) was a Galilean fisherman and the brother of Andrew. Peter had many contradicting tendencies - fickle one day, while fiercely committed the next; afraid of being accused as a religious zealot, but willing to sacrifice his life for his values; gentle but tempestuous; quick to anger, but infinite in forgiveness. In all of this, was the incredible ability to lead people. Peter rose above these “flaws” to become the “first Pope,” and push forward a cause/faith that remains strong two millenniums later.
This work (PETRUS) is a musical reflection of the character of Peter. Although it has sacred "overtones," it is intended to be a character study of Peter. In the opening, a haunting, inner voice (conscience) is calling, “Petrus.” Then, as if a storm suddenly came up on the Sea of Galilee, Peter's personality (music) becomes tempestuous. This is followed by a moment of reflection where the inner voice (tenor/bass chorus) returns, and says, “Feed my lambs, tend my sheep,….” There is a sense of urgency that ensues as Peter's commitment grows and culminates into an outburst of emotion - “Alleluia!”
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