Psalm 47 (In Celebration of Hope)

For Mitchell Sturges

Composed in 2024. A majestic, neoclassical setting of Psalm 47, based on The Jewish Publication Society's “The Holy Scriptures According to the Masoretic Text: A New Translation” (1917) and “The Rashi Ketuvim by Rabbi Shraga Silverstein”.

During Rosh HaShanah, it is a widespread custom to recite Psalm 47 seven times before sounding the shofar. This is the only Psalm designated for this sacred purpose of being recited multiple times. The sound of the shofar is a wakeup call and summons God’s presence from the throne of judgment to the chair of mercy. In service to bringing in the Jewish new year, the recitation of Psalm 47 serves as a reminder of the lesson of the Sons of Korach, that it is never too late for hope. In the words of Rabbi Mendel Kaplan, “As long as you’re still around, you can fix things.”

There are currently six versions available: mezzo/alto with piano, mezzo/alto with organ, soprano with piano, soprano with organ, tenor with piano, and tenor with organ.