Composer

:

Edmund Rubbra

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

1:45

'Orpheus With His Lute, Op.8/2' is a song composed by Edmund Rubbra in 1933. It was premiered in London in the same year. The song is based on a text from Shakespeare's play 'Henry VIII', Act III, Scene 1. The song has three movements, each of which is characterized by a different mood and tempo. The first movement is marked 'Andante con moto' and is in the key of G major. It begins with a gentle, flowing melody played by the piano, which is then joined by the voice. The mood of this movement is peaceful and contemplative, with the lyrics describing Orpheus playing his lute and soothing the beasts of the forest. The second movement is marked 'Allegro moderato' and is in the key of E minor. It is more lively and energetic than the first movement, with a faster tempo and a more complex melody. The lyrics describe Orpheus using his music to charm the gods and win back his lost love, Eurydice. The third and final movement is marked 'Andante con moto' and is in the key of G major. It returns to the gentle, peaceful mood of the first movement, with a simple melody played by the piano and sung by the voice. The lyrics describe Orpheus playing his lute and singing to his love, Eurydice, in the underworld. Overall, 'Orpheus With His Lute, Op.8/2' is a beautiful and evocative song that showcases Rubbra's skill as a composer. The three movements each have their own distinct character, but they are united by a common theme of music's power to soothe and heal.

More....