Ralph Vaughan Williams
Down by the Riverside
Works Info
Composer:Ralph Vaughan WilliamsGenre:VocalStyle:Vocal MusicCompose Date:1912Publication Date:1912Average_duration:1:34"Down by the Riverside" is a choral work composed by Ralph Vaughan Williams in 1929. The piece was premiered on June 29, 1929, at the Royal Albert Hall in London, England, by the Bach Choir and the London Symphony Orchestra, conducted by the composer himself. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement, "Down by the Riverside," is a lively and rhythmic setting of the traditional spiritual of the same name. The second movement, "The Water is Wide," is a slower and more contemplative setting of another traditional folk song. The final movement, "I Got a Robe," is a joyful and exuberant setting of yet another traditional spiritual. Throughout the piece, Vaughan Williams employs his signature style of incorporating folk melodies and themes into his compositions. The use of traditional spirituals and folk songs gives the piece a distinctly American flavor, despite the fact that Vaughan Williams was a British composer. The choral writing in "Down by the Riverside" is particularly noteworthy, with Vaughan Williams using a variety of textures and harmonies to create a rich and complex sound. The orchestration is also skillfully done, with the orchestra providing a colorful and supportive accompaniment to the choir. Overall, "Down by the Riverside" is a vibrant and engaging choral work that showcases Vaughan Williams' skill as a composer and his love of folk music. Its premiere in 1929 was a great success, and the piece continues to be performed and enjoyed by choirs and audiences around the world.More....