Composer

:

Henry Cowell

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1917 - 1922

Publication Date

:

Oct 11, 1922

First Performance

:

May 11, 1922

Average_duration

:

11:18

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Irish Legends (3), HC 354 is a composition by American composer Henry Cowell. It was composed in 1940 and premiered on March 17, 1941, by the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Pierre Monteux. The piece consists of three movements, each based on a different Irish legend. The first movement, "The Hero Sun," is based on the legend of Cuchulainn, a hero of Irish mythology. The music is characterized by a driving rhythm and a sense of urgency, reflecting the hero's bravery and determination. The movement features a solo violin, which represents Cuchulainn's voice. The second movement, "The Banshee," is based on the legend of the banshee, a female spirit in Irish folklore who is said to wail when someone is about to die. The music is haunting and ethereal, with a sense of foreboding and sadness. The movement features a solo flute, which represents the banshee's voice. The third movement, "The Leprechaun," is based on the legend of the leprechaun, a mischievous fairy in Irish folklore who is said to guard a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. The music is playful and whimsical, with a sense of mischief and humor. The movement features a solo piccolo, which represents the leprechaun's voice. Overall, Irish Legends (3) is a colorful and evocative work that captures the spirit of Irish mythology and folklore. Cowell's use of solo instruments to represent the voices of the different characters adds a unique and personal touch to the music. The piece is a testament to Cowell's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both imaginative and accessible.

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