Composer

:

Ned Rorem

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1980

Average_duration

:

29:43

Movement_count

:

12

Movement ....

The Santa Fe Songs is a song cycle composed by Ned Rorem in 1993. The cycle consists of six songs, each with its own unique character and style. The premiere of the cycle was given by soprano Dawn Upshaw and pianist Gilbert Kalish at the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival in August 1993. The first song, "The Santa Fe Suite," is a lively and rhythmic piece that captures the energy and excitement of the city. The second song, "The Cholera," is a haunting and melancholic piece that reflects on the devastating effects of the disease on the people of Santa Fe in the 19th century. The third song, "The Road to Los Alamos," is a contemplative and introspective piece that reflects on the history of the Manhattan Project and the development of the atomic bomb. The fourth song, "The Old Lovers," is a nostalgic and romantic piece that reflects on the memories of past love affairs. The fifth song, "The Serpent," is a dark and brooding piece that explores the theme of temptation and sin. The final song, "The End of Summer," is a wistful and reflective piece that captures the melancholy of the end of the season. The Santa Fe Songs are characterized by Rorem's lyrical and expressive melodies, his use of rich harmonies and textures, and his ability to capture the essence of the city and its history. The cycle is a testament to Rorem's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both beautiful and meaningful.

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