Britten first set Psalm 150 to music at the age of 18. This psalm, which contains multiple references to musical instruments, had always been a favourite with comporers. He returned to the Biblical text as a mature composer, immediately after completing theWar Requiem (op. 66). His alma mater, South Lodge in Lowestoft, Suffolk (later known as Old Buckenham Hall) had requested a piece for the school choir and orchestra, to celebrate their centennial. For this Psalm, the composer did not specify the performing forces but allowed any instrument, or combination of instruments, to play in their appropriate registers.

The work opens with a cheerful march tune; the two-part chorus (sopranos and altos) join in after an extended instrumental introduction. The second section is characterized by its lively 7/8 meter, and the third by a four-voice canon on a simple melody. The opening march returns to end the piece.