Dextera Domini

I upload this with pleasure for our member, and my friend, Domino! :-)

"Dextera Domini" is the proper Offertory for the Mass on Easter Sunday.

This motet was composed in 1871, and uses verses 16 & 17 of Psalm 117 (118) as its text.

16 The right hand of the LORD hath the preeminence; * the right hand of the LORD bringeth mighty things to pass.

17 I shall not die, but live, * and declare the works of the Lord.

Franck's motet was composed for choir (STB), soloists, and orchestra , or organ and double bass. It is dedicated to George Haas.

This transcription/arrangement was done by the organist, Arthur Louis Victor Dodemont (1872-1912), organist of St. Louis-en-I'lle in Paris.

I don't think this is by any means a great piece, but has the qualities of being a very memorable one. The soaring melodies, and noble flow are pleasing and every choir that I've ever performed this piece with has loved it very much.

You need good voices, able to sing "heroically" (but controlled!) in the high registers, and your men need to make a rich and strong unison sound.

This arrangement is really not much more than the accompaniment slightly "rearranged" with several "cuts" as well. In some cases, the "arrangement" actually gets in the way, but I played it pretty much as Dodemont arranged it.

I did not follow his registrations exactly. My approach was more the "sung Anglican approach," with respect to the French sounds and traditions of performance. This is why I chose Salisbury for this performance.

It's actually "easier" to play it as an accompaniment, since I tried to do a bit too much with registration in this. Also, I think I was a bit "indecisive" here and there, but I wanted to get it done, so, here it is.

The score is attached below, as well as a photo of Cesar Franck, and two of the St. Louis-en-Ille, where the arranger was organist.

If you don't know this piece, I urge you to explore for your Easter services next year!

I hope you like this, Domino! :-)