Christoph Müller

Psalm 22

With his large-scale setting of Psalm 22, Christoph JK Müller has created a captivating choral work. He translates the vivid imagery of the biblical text into modern, stirring sounds: the result is a combination of catchy melodies, powerful rhythms, and a coherent dramatic structure. The composition powerfully explores the contrast between loneliness, exclusion, and hostility on the one hand, and trust in God, devotion, and perseverance on the other—an emotional struggle for hope in times of crisis. The work was commissioned by the State Academy for Young Musicians of Baden-Württemberg in Ochsenhausen and received its world premiere at the international choral festival C.H.O.I.R. "Psalm 22" has the potential to become an exciting repertoire highlight, and not just for ambitious ensembles. The instrumental arrangement is modular: The complete version includes a rhythm section (piano, double bass, percussion), woodwinds (alto saxophone, trumpet, tenor trombone), and a four-part string arrangement. However, the work can also be performed without strings (small band), without woodwinds (rhythm section only), or even with just piano. After 40 minutes of intense music, pulsating rhythms and memorable melodies linger in the ear—a versatile, suspenseful experience that will stay with and move both performers and listeners for a long time to come.