Composer

:

Einojuhani Rautavaara

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1967

First Performance

:

Mar 12, 1967

Average_duration

:

13:19

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Ta Tou Theou (...se mikä on Jumalasta...) is a choral work composed by Einojuhani Rautavaara in 1972. The piece was premiered in Helsinki, Finland on May 7, 1972, by the Finnish Radio Chamber Choir under the direction of Eric-Olof Söderström. The work is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a text from the New Testament. The first movement, "Ta Tou Theou," is based on a passage from the Gospel of John and features a slow, meditative melody sung by the choir. The second movement, "Korinthioskirje," is based on a passage from the First Epistle to the Corinthians and features a more lively, rhythmic melody. The final movement, "Kolossalaiskirje," is based on a passage from the Epistle to the Colossians and features a complex, polyphonic texture. One of the most striking characteristics of Ta Tou Theou is its use of unconventional harmonies and chord progressions. Rautavaara was known for his interest in exploring new harmonic possibilities, and this piece is no exception. The harmonies are often dissonant and unexpected, creating a sense of tension and unease that is characteristic of Rautavaara's style. Another notable feature of the piece is its use of extended vocal techniques. The choir is called upon to produce a wide range of sounds, from soft, ethereal whispers to powerful, full-throated shouts. These techniques are used to create a sense of drama and intensity, particularly in the second and third movements. Overall, Ta Tou Theou is a powerful and deeply spiritual work that showcases Rautavaara's unique compositional style. Its unconventional harmonies and extended vocal techniques make it a challenging piece for performers, but also a rewarding one for those who are willing to take on the challenge.

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