EIL MELECH YOSHEIV
by Michael Reid Winikoff
Mixed (SATB) or Men's
(TTBB) Choir a cappella
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THE PRAYER - Eil Melech Yosheiv is a piyyut (liturgical poem) that introduces the statement of the Thirteen Divine Attributes (Exodus 34:6-7, known as the “Covenant”), which are a recurring theme throughout Yom Kippur – our appeal to divine mercy and compassion. The opening image of Eil Melech Yosheiv is of the Almighty seated on His throne of compassion, governing in lovingkindness, dealing charitably with all creatures, not according to their wickedness, Who taught us His Thirteen Attributes. The climactic image is of G-d descending in a cloud, passing near Moses as He reveals the attributes of His nature in the Covenant.
THE MUSIC - This rendition is indebted to the famous
Zavel Zilberts setting, as well as that of Jacob Frohman. The tenors
open by announcing a theme that will recur in
various guises throughout the piece. The musical coloration is
that of Yom Kippur, even alluding at one point to the famous Kol Nidrei
chant. A folk-like theme in the treble voices appears against a
quasi-ostinato (“obstinate”) or repeating pattern in the tenor and bass, while the
conclusion, with its stately harmonies, depicts the grandeur of its
imagery.
PERFORMANCE -
The music requires attention to rhythmic accuracy, particularly in the
repeated transitions between compound 12/8, 9/8 and 6/8 meters and
straight 4/4, and in contrapuntal passages leading into and including
the central "andante scherzando" section. Full-throated sound is
called for in the opening and closing sections of the piece.
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Eil melech yosheiv Mocheil avonot amo Oseh tz’dakot Eil horeita lanu lomar “Vayeired A-donay |
Sovereign G-d, You blot out the sins of Your people, You deal charitably G-d who has imparted to us "And the Lord descended |