description Le Roi David (King David) Overview
Le Roi David (King David) is a dramatic oratorio by Swiss composer Arthur Honegger, composed in 1921. The work tells the biblical story of King David from his anointment as king through his reign, struggles, and death, using texts compiled by René Morax from the Books of Samuel, Kings, and Chronicles. Originally conceived as stage music for a theatrical production, the piece evolved into a hybrid form that incorporates elements of oratorio, opera, and incidental music, featuring soloists, narrator, chorus, and orchestra. Le Roi David established Honegger's international reputation and remains one of his most performed works.
help Le Roi David (King David) FAQ
Which parts of King David's life appear in Le Roi David?
Honegger's work follows David from shepherd and warrior to king, including his victory over Goliath, conflict with Saul, and grief over Absalom. It concludes with David's death and the succession of Solomon.
Why is Le Roi David called a dramatic psalm?
The piece combines spoken narration, biblical drama, choral psalms, and instrumental music instead of following a conventional oratorio format throughout. René Morax wrote the French text for the original theatrical production.
What was unusual about the original 1921 scoring?
Honegger initially wrote Le Roi David for a small ensemble because the Mézières production had limited musical resources. He later produced the better-known orchestral version for concert performance.
What musical styles can be heard in Le Roi David?
The score moves between Bach-like counterpoint, chant, popular dance rhythms, and modern early-20th-century harmony. Its best-known sections include David's lament for Saul and Jonathan and the chorus "Dieu te garde, mon fils."
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