About the piece
A French metrical version of Psalm 38, one of the penitential psalms, in four voices. The edition has 17 measures written in 4/2.
How to prepare it
It is a homophonic piece: the four voices move together, syllable by syllable, which makes it accessible for a choir that is just starting to sing in parts. The ranges are moderate: sopranos E4–C5 (a minor sixth), altos C4–A4 (a major sixth), tenors G3–E4 (a major sixth) and basses A2–C4 (a minor tenth). Rehearse the French spoken and mind the balance so that no voice covers the melody.
When to use it
Appropriate for Lent, given the penitential character of the psalm.