Composer

:

John Tavener

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Meditation

Compose Date

:

1990

Average_duration

:

7:14

John Tavener's 'Thrinos' is a choral work that was composed in 1999. It was premiered on 7th November 1999 at the Royal Albert Hall in London, as part of the BBC Symphony Orchestra's 'Total Immersion' concert series. The work is divided into three movements, each of which is characterized by its use of choral harmonies, vocal textures, and instrumental accompaniment. The first movement of 'Thrinos' is titled 'Lament for Jerusalem'. It is a slow and mournful piece that features a solo soprano voice, accompanied by a choir and a string orchestra. The music is characterized by its use of dissonant harmonies and a haunting vocal melody that is repeated throughout the movement. The lyrics are taken from the Book of Lamentations, and they express the sorrow and grief of the Jewish people following the destruction of Jerusalem. The second movement of 'Thrinos' is titled 'Lament for the Mother of God'. It is a more complex and intricate piece that features a choir, a solo cello, and a percussion ensemble. The music is characterized by its use of complex rhythms and harmonies, as well as its use of vocal and instrumental textures. The lyrics are taken from a Byzantine hymn that honors the Virgin Mary, and they express the sorrow and grief of the Mother of God at the crucifixion of her son. The third and final movement of 'Thrinos' is titled 'Lament for the Dormition of the Mother of God'. It is a slow and meditative piece that features a choir, a solo violin, and a string orchestra. The music is characterized by its use of simple harmonies and a gentle vocal melody that is repeated throughout the movement. The lyrics are taken from a Byzantine hymn that honors the Virgin Mary, and they express the sorrow and grief of the disciples at the death of the Mother of God. Overall, 'Thrinos' is a powerful and moving work that showcases John Tavener's skill as a composer of choral music. The work is characterized by its use of complex harmonies, intricate rhythms, and haunting vocal melodies, as well as its use of instrumental accompaniment to create a rich and textured sound. The lyrics, taken from ancient hymns and religious texts, express themes of sorrow, grief, and mourning, making 'Thrinos' a deeply emotional and spiritual work.

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