Composer

:

Steve Reich

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

2004

Average_duration

:

26:58

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

"You Are" is a contemporary classical composition by American composer Steve Reich. It was composed in 2003 and premiered on October 9, 2004, at the Barbican Centre in London, England. The piece is a setting of a Hebrew prayer called "Shema," which is recited twice daily by observant Jews. The composition consists of three movements, each of which is based on a different section of the prayer. The first movement, "Shema," is a simple and repetitive setting of the opening lines of the prayer. The second movement, "V'ahavta," is a more complex and rhythmically varied setting of the following lines, which speak of loving God with all one's heart, soul, and might. The final movement, "Exodus," is a fast and energetic setting of the final lines of the prayer, which recount the Exodus from Egypt. One of the most notable characteristics of "You Are" is its use of phasing, a technique that Reich has used in many of his compositions. Phasing involves gradually shifting the timing of two or more identical musical patterns, creating a constantly changing and evolving texture. In "You Are," Reich uses phasing to create a sense of momentum and forward motion, as well as to highlight the rhythmic and melodic patterns of the prayer. Another characteristic of the piece is its use of vocal and instrumental textures. The vocal parts are sung by a small ensemble of four singers, who are accompanied by a larger ensemble of instruments, including strings, winds, and percussion. The instrumental parts are often sparse and repetitive, providing a rhythmic and harmonic foundation for the vocal parts. Overall, "You Are" is a powerful and meditative work that combines the ancient words of a Hebrew prayer with the contemporary musical language of Steve Reich. Its use of phasing and instrumental textures creates a hypnotic and immersive listening experience, while its setting of the Shema prayer speaks to the timeless themes of faith, love, and redemption.

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