Composer

:

William Levi Dawson

Average_duration

:

6:10

"Steal Away" is a choral work composed by William Levi Dawson in 1931. It premiered in 1934 and has since become a staple in the choral repertoire. The piece is a spiritual, a genre of music that originated in the African American community during the era of slavery in the United States. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked "Moderato" and begins with a solo voice singing the opening line, "Steal away to Jesus." The choir then enters, singing in unison and gradually building in intensity. The movement features call-and-response between the soloist and choir, as well as moments of harmony and dissonance. The second movement is marked "Andante" and is more contemplative in nature. The choir sings in four-part harmony, with the melody moving between the different sections. The movement features a soloist singing the line "I ain't got long to stay here," which is repeated by the choir. The movement ends with a quiet, peaceful resolution. The final movement is marked "Allegro" and is the most energetic of the three. The choir sings in a fast tempo, with syncopated rhythms and lively melodies. The movement features a soloist singing the line "My Lord, He calls me," which is repeated by the choir. The piece ends with a triumphant, joyful conclusion. Overall, "Steal Away" is characterized by its use of call-and-response, syncopated rhythms, and rich harmonies. It is a powerful expression of faith and hope in the face of adversity, and has become a beloved piece in the choral repertoire.

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