The Ordering of Moses: An African-American Masterwork

Joshua and Angela examine the remarkable oratorio The Ordering of Moses by African-American composer Robert Nathaniel Dett. This powerful and moving work tells the biblical story of Moses leading the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt and is considered one of the most important works of African-American classical music. Scored for chorus, orchestra, and soloists, Dett's oratorio features a variety of musical styles, including spirituals, folk music, and classical forms. It is a powerful work that explores themes of freedom, oppression, and hope while serving as an allegory of the Black experience of the 18th-19th centuries.

Featured Music:

• The Ordering of Moses, No.1: "Introduction" 
  May Festival Chorus
  Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra
  James Conlon, conductor
• The Ordering of Moses, No.3: "Oh Lord, Behold My Affliction" 
• The Ordering of Moses, No.9: "And When Moses Smote the Water" 
• The Ordering of Moses, No.15: "He is King of Kings" 

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