Enoch (2013 Montez), oratorio

<bibexternal title="Enoch" author="Montez"/>

Enoch (2013) is an oratorio by Dan Montez (mus. and libr.).

Abstract

"Dan Montez’s Enoch is based on the life of the Old Testament prophet, Enoch, the father of Methuselah, who mysteriously disappeared from the Book of Genesis without explanation. Over 100 chapters of the Book of Enoch, lost for almost 2000 years, were discovered recently and translated from Hebrew, Aramaic and Ethiopian (Geez). Christian and Jewish scholars were surprised to find quotes from the Book of Enoch as many as 128 times in the Old Testament, more than any other book, and consider it to be scripture. The story is the antithesis of the Sodom story inasmuch as a city becomes so righteous that is taken up into heaven. Enoch is called as the first scribe of heaven and first author of scripture. With a little help from Montez, the newly-discovered Enoch will now have his very own oratorio. The work will feature the Taconic Opera chorus, professional lead singers and full orchestra. Performances will be conducted under the baton of Dan Montez himself who is delighted to debut the second of his oratorical compositions in Westchester County. Enoch will be sung in English and its musical influences include Fauré, Ravel and Poulenc. Those who come to the world premiere of the piece will have the opportunity to take part in the making of music history."--Premiere presentation.

Editions, performances, translations

Premiered in Ossining, NY: United Methodist Church, March 2, 2013.