II. Die sieben Worte des Erlöser am Kreuze (The Seven Last Words), Op. 81 (Words 6 & 7 & Epilogue)

Otto Valdemar Malling (1 June 1848 – 5 October 1915) was a Danish composer, from 1900 the cathedral organist in Copenhagen and then Director of the Royal Danish Academy of Music, Copenhagen.

In his later career he mainly composed organ works and vocal music, but he also wrote a significant amount of orchestral music, as well a substantial cantata and a symphony in D minor. His organ music brought Malling some reputation abroad, but after his death he was soon forgotten in his native country.

Malling's complete "Die sieben Worte des Erlöser am Kreuze" is a major work, taking about 35 minutes in duration. It was published by Hansen in 1904, showing all of Malling's recognizable harmonies and compositional fingerprints.

The first movement, "Introduction - Procession to Golgotha" is heavy with stumble and drag gestures. The second movement, like all the "word movements" combines several scripture passages (see First Comment for complete details) and as always, Malling is careful to unify his themes. This movement has a wonderful "Malling modality," and is highly dramatic. The third movement is heart-wrenching, with the Lord's despair at His forsaking. The fourth movement depicts the death of Jesus in a most striking manner.

If you've followed by Malling uploads, you may recall that he uses the chorale, "Wie schön leuchtet der Morgenstern" in many of his works. It always appears to show the Light of Christ. In this movement it suddenly appears, and then is slowly extinguished, then marked by two sudden "thunder chords"

The "Epilogue" begins with somber death, and then all hell literally breaks loose, before the work has played out all possibles, and ends in a solemn hymn of mourning.

I realize this is a long work, but it really is best heard complete. Without this, the unity between themes and movements will not be apparent.

You will need to adjust volume, as the range is huge. Be aware that there are some sudden explosions of sound.

Peace to All.