Composer

:

William Bolcom

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Average_duration

:

3:10

"Amor" is a song cycle composed by William Bolcom, an American composer, pianist, and professor of music. The cycle was composed in 1984 and premiered on October 28, 1984, at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. The cycle consists of six movements, each of which is based on a poem about love by a different poet. The first movement, "Love in the Dictionary," is based on a poem by John Ciardi. It is a playful and witty exploration of the various definitions of love found in the dictionary. Bolcom sets the text to a lively, syncopated rhythm, with the piano providing a jazzy accompaniment. The second movement, "Love in the Thirties," is based on a poem by Kenneth Koch. It is a nostalgic look back at the romantic movies and songs of the 1930s. Bolcom sets the text to a lush, romantic melody, with the piano providing a sweeping, cinematic accompaniment. The third movement, "Love in the Mirror," is based on a poem by Richard Wilbur. It is a reflective meditation on the nature of love and the self. Bolcom sets the text to a haunting, introspective melody, with the piano providing a spare, atmospheric accompaniment. The fourth movement, "Love in the Museum," is based on a poem by Howard Moss. It is a whimsical and surreal exploration of love and art. Bolcom sets the text to a playful, jazzy melody, with the piano providing a colorful, impressionistic accompaniment. The fifth movement, "Love in the Rain," is based on a poem by Donald Hall. It is a tender and melancholy reflection on lost love. Bolcom sets the text to a simple, plaintive melody, with the piano providing a gentle, rain-like accompaniment. The final movement, "Love in the Dictionary (Reprise)," returns to the playful and witty exploration of the various definitions of love found in the dictionary. Bolcom sets the text to a lively, syncopated rhythm, with the piano providing a jazzy accompaniment, but this time with a more reflective and wistful tone. Overall, "Amor" is a diverse and engaging song cycle that showcases Bolcom's versatility as a composer. The cycle moves seamlessly between different styles and moods, from playful and whimsical to tender and melancholy, while always maintaining a strong sense of musical and emotional coherence.

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