Kheruvimskaya pesn – Cherubic Hymn

Description

Kheruvimskaya pesn – Cherubic Hymn
Mikhail Glinka

Cherubic Hymn was written in 1837 during Glinka’s tenure as ‘Kapellmeister’ of the Imperial Chapel in St. Petersburg. The work begins with a pianissimo “Adagio”, depicting angelic voices descending from Heaven singing the “Thrice-Holy Hymn”. In great contrast, the ‘Allegro’ fugal closing communicates the majesty and holiness of the Eucharistic elements placed upon the altar. Although written for the liturgy, this anthem is an effective concert piece.