A New Commandment

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“A New Commandment” draws its lyrical inspiration from John 13:34–35, expressing a profound engagement with the theme of love. My intent is palpable from the outset as the piece begins in a somber, minor key with the words, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another”. To underscore the gravity of this message, the phrase is sung multiple times, each iteration featuring a unique musical variation.

As the composition progresses, a pivotal moment occurs when two groups of the choir diverge, allowing the emergence of delicate solo voices that weave through the texture before reuniting the ensemble. The mood shifts significantly afterwards, adopting a more affectionate tone with the continuation, “just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another”. The melody in the soprano line is crafted to allow for continuous looping, each repetition venturing into new harmonic territories and gaining emotional strength.

In a climactic build, the previously subdued solo voices flourish, repeating “love one another”. The composition reaches an uplifting crescendo, illustrating the blossoming power of love that envelops all. Concluding the piece, the text “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” is reintroduced. Echoing the opening, these words return in a major key but are marked by a dissonant bass note, posing a reflective question on the challenges of living out this commandment.” – Tormod Tvete Vik

“A New Commandment” was commissioned by Mark Pope of the University Park United Methodist Church in Dallas, Texas, and had its first performance in the church on the 5th of May 2024 by the Chancel Choir and Inspirata. Listen on YouTube.