Kingston

This SATB setting of an English text opens with a stark portrayal of grief, the voices engaging in a dialogue that reflects the profound sorrow of the Passion. Kimball’s music captures the agony of the text, depicting the suffering of Christ. The harmony is direct and moving, the melodic lines often angular, suiting the intensity of the subject matter. The text explicitly shifts blame from the historical persecutors to the sins of the individual, a common theme in sacred music of this era, finding the true cause of Christ’s torment within the listener’s own failings. The composer responds to this personal reflection with music that demands heartfelt engagement, urging a response of deep repentance.