The Cherubic Hymn
Glinka - (1804-1857)
Izhe kheruvimyi, written in 1837, is a setting of Russian Orthodox liturgy. Glinka was among the first of the Russian composers who turned from the European mainstream to create a music, which was purely Russian, written for Russians. His first opera, A life for the Tsar, set the nationalistic movement afoot, treating a Russian story and using Russian rhythm and melody. This hymn setting is in two sections; the first uses the dense often modern-sounding harmonies of the Russian Orthodox tradition in an ecstatic setting of the first three verses:
Let us join our voices with the angels, Holy, Holy, Holy Lord of Hosts.
Blessed Trinity, we praise thee as we sing our thrice holy hymn to you.
Now as we draw near thy throne of grace, let our hearts cast off earthly care. Amen.
The second section reminds us of a Russian dance for the words, Glory be to God in the Highest; with the angelic host above we worship and praise thee, Alleluya.
Programme notes compiled by Sara Kemsley