Composer

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Cornelius Cardew

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Keyboard

Average_duration

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22:59

"We Sing for the Future!" is a choral work composed by Cornelius Cardew in 1971. It was premiered on May 1, 1971, at the Roundhouse in London, as part of the May Day celebrations organized by the International Times. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, titled "The Great Learning," is based on a text by Confucius and features a large choir singing in unison. The text is divided into seven sections, each of which is repeated several times, with the choir gradually adding more and more layers of sound. The effect is hypnotic and meditative, with the repetition of the text and the gradual build-up of sound creating a sense of unity and solidarity. The second movement, titled "Revolution is the Main Trend," is a more overtly political piece, featuring a smaller choir singing a text by Mao Zedong. The text is a call to arms, urging the people to rise up against their oppressors and fight for their rights. The music is more dissonant and aggressive than in the first movement, reflecting the urgency and intensity of the message. The third and final movement, titled "We Sing for the Future," is a more optimistic and hopeful piece, featuring a solo soprano singing a text by Cardew himself. The text is a celebration of the power of music to bring people together and inspire change. The music is more melodic and harmonious than in the previous movements, reflecting the sense of hope and possibility that the text conveys. Overall, "We Sing for the Future!" is a powerful and inspiring work that combines political activism with a deep appreciation for the transformative power of music. Its use of texts by Confucius, Mao Zedong, and Cardew himself reflects the composer's commitment to social justice and his belief in the importance of collective action. The work remains a landmark of the avant-garde choral repertoire and a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire and unite people.

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