Prologue in Heaven [From the Opera "Faust"] - Havergal Brian
Channel: Sergio Cánovas
Date: 2018-02-06

BBC Symphony Orchestra conducted by Sir Charles Mackerras. Thomas Swift as Raphael, Forbes Robinson as Gabriel, John Mitchinson as Mephistopheles and John Noble as God.

I - Moderato - Allegro assai - Adagio - A tempo - Adagio - Allegro moderato - Adagio - Allegro agitato - Allegro - Allegro assai - Molto meno mosso - Molto sostenuto: 0:00

Brian's "Faust" was composed between 1955-6, being based on Goethe's classic drama. Brian musical setting is, according to some, the most rich and faithful to the dramatic expression of the literary masterpiece. Unfortunately, the work hasn't received a stage premiere, despite several orchestral fragments being performed as standalone pieces and a complete recording of the work being recently published.

The prologue in heaven is the prologue to the whole work, in which Mephistopheles, an agent of the devil, wagers with God for the soul of Faust, Lord's favourite striving scholar. God has decided to "soon lead Faust to clarity", who previously only "served Him confusedly." However, to test Faust, he allows Mephistopheles to attempt to lead him astray. God declares that "man still must err, while he doth strive". It is shown that the outcome of the bet is certain, for "a good man, in his darkest impulses, remains aware of the right path", and Mephistopheles is permitted to lead Faust astray only so that he may learn from his misdeeds.

The prologue begins with a rarefied introduction, strings presenting an undulating motive over a shadowy march of brass and percussion. The archangel Raphael begins to praise the beauty of creation, followed solemnly by Gabriel and Michael. The three join in a final praise of the creator. The music turns darker, as Mephistopheles enters with a voice of discord. Underestimating the creating and mankind in particular as a flawed creature. After a bang, the solemn voice of God appears, being answered by Mephistopheles. God points out to Faust as one of his faithful servers, but the voice of discord points out his flaws, as Faust desires limitless knowledge and pleasures.

The music turns violent and dissonant, as Mephistopheles presents a bet for the soul of Faust to God. Music becomes more melodic, as Gods accepts this bet, trusting Faust to be able to save himself despite the temptation of sin. Mephistopheles is confident in his victory. God solemnly tells how he allows sin in order for mankind to improve itself, weakened their will by pleasure and endless rest. This introduction culminates in a massive orchestral climax.

[Activate the subtitles to read the lyrics].

Picture: A frame from the 1926 silent film "Faust", by German director F. W. Murnau.

Musical/narrative analysis written by myself. Sources: https://bit.ly/3tSK2vx and https://bit.ly/3CFs18b

To check the score (piano reduction): https://bit.ly/3UEkZIa