Three Penitential Anthems from the Gostling Manuscript – II. Save Me O God

Description

These penitential anthems were transcribed by Dr. George Guest from the Gostling Manuscript. John Gostling was renowned for his extraordinary bass voice an held positions in the Church of England, eventually becoming Sub-Dean of St. Paul’s Cathedral. Gostling was also a prolific copyist and his manuscript contains over 60 anthems of Blow, Purcell, Locke and others.”Save me, O God” of John Blow is a splendid example of the use of simple means to convey the meaning of a text. Mostly homophonic in texture, the subtle shifts of voicing and harmony all support the penitential nature of the text. The organ doubles the voice parts, discreetly supporting them in a continuo fashion. Dr. Guest has placed suggested tempi and dynamics throughout, further enhancing the practical nature of this edition. The voice parts are moderate in range, placing this piece within the scope of most choirs.