Composer

:

Arthur Bliss

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Orchestral

Compose Date

:

1934 - 1935

Average_duration

:

15:34

"Things to Come, Op. 53, F. 131b" is a musical composition by British composer Arthur Bliss. It was composed in 1935 for the film of the same name, directed by William Cameron Menzies. The film is a science fiction epic that depicts a future world ravaged by war and the subsequent rebuilding of society. The premiere of "Things to Come" took place on February 14, 1936, at the Gaumont Palace cinema in London. The film was a critical and commercial success, and Bliss's score was praised for its innovative use of electronic instruments and its ability to capture the futuristic tone of the film. The composition is divided into six movements, each corresponding to a different section of the film. The first movement, "Prologue," sets the tone for the film with a haunting choral introduction that gradually builds in intensity. The second movement, "March," is a militaristic piece that accompanies the film's depiction of war and destruction. The third movement, "The World in Ruins," is a somber and reflective piece that captures the aftermath of the war. The fourth movement, "Dedication," is a hopeful and uplifting piece that accompanies the film's depiction of the rebuilding of society. The fifth movement, "Machines," is a lively and energetic piece that accompanies the film's depiction of technological progress. The final movement, "Epilogue," brings the composition full circle with a reprise of the choral introduction from the first movement. Bliss's use of electronic instruments, such as the theremin and the ondes Martenot, was groundbreaking for its time and helped to create a futuristic and otherworldly sound. The composition also features a large orchestra and choir, which add to the grandeur and epic scale of the music. Overall, "Things to Come, Op. 53, F. 131b" is a masterful composition that perfectly captures the tone and themes of the film. Its innovative use of electronic instruments and its ability to evoke a sense of hope and optimism in the face of destruction make it a timeless piece of music.

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