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Randall Thompson's "Alleluia" is a choral composition that has become one of the most popular and frequently performed works in the American choral repertoire. Here are some interesting facts about the piece and its composer:

1. Composition and Premiere:

   • Randall Thompson composed "Alleluia" in 1940 in response to a commission from Serge Koussevitzky, conductor of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
   • The piece premiered on July 8, 1940, at the Berkshire Music Center in Tanglewood, Massachusetts, with the Berkshire Festival Chorus and the Boston Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Thompson himself.

2. Structure:

   • "Alleluia" is a relatively short composition, lasting around six minutes.
   • The work is scored for a cappella choir, meaning it is performed without instrumental accompaniment.

3. Musical Characteristics:

   • Thompson's "Alleluia" is known for its simple yet powerful musical language. It is characterized by rich harmonies and expressive dynamics.
   • The piece is often described as both majestic and intimate, with moments of both grandeur and quiet reflection.

4. Text Setting:

   • The text of "Alleluia" consists solely of the word "alleluia," repeated and varied in its presentation.
   • Despite the repetition of a single word, Thompson employs a wide range of choral techniques to create a piece with emotional depth and complexity.

5. Popular Usage:

   • "Alleluia" gained popularity not only in the concert hall but also in various ceremonial and celebratory settings.
   • It has been performed at important national events, including the funerals of U.S. Presidents John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon.

6. Influence on Choral Music:

   • Randall Thompson's "Alleluia" is often cited as a landmark work in the realm of American choral music.
   • It has inspired many composers and continues to be a staple in the repertoire of choirs around the world.

7. Legacy:

   • Randall Thompson was a prominent American composer and teacher, and "Alleluia" remains one of his most celebrated compositions.
   • The enduring popularity of "Alleluia" speaks to its emotional resonance and its ability to connect with both performers and audiences alike.