My God, Why Hast Thou Forsaken Me?

For mixed SATB chorus, unaccompanied. Includes a piano part on the score for rehearsal purposes only. 'My God, why hast thou forsaken me?' was originally written in the summer of 2006 on a course run by the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain. It was first performed by the choir of Eton College directed by Ralph Allwood. This motet intends to capture the anguish of Jesus' final moments on the cross. The opening bars attempt to convey the horrific pain, sorrow and tragedy that these words and the climactic moment of Christ's crucifixion mean to Christians worldwide. It is also a human sentiment echoed every day by the needy, regardless of their religious views. The piece ends with a repetition of the opening phrase, followed by a blossoming 'Amen'. This expressive conclusion hints at a glimmer of hope, although the final chord is left unresolved; resolution, though suggested, is not obtained.