Composer

:

Herbert Howells

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

2:22

Herbert Howells' "My Eyes for Beauty Pine" is a choral work that was composed in 1954. It was premiered on May 22, 1954, at the Three Choirs Festival in Worcester, England. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, marked "Moderato," begins with a gentle, flowing melody in the sopranos. The other voices gradually join in, creating a rich, harmonious texture. The lyrics, taken from a poem by Robert Bridges, describe the beauty of a pine tree and its surroundings. Howells' music perfectly captures the peaceful, natural imagery of the text. The second movement, marked "Allegro," is much more lively and energetic than the first. The lyrics, also taken from Bridges' poem, describe the pine tree as a symbol of strength and resilience. Howells' music reflects this sentiment with its driving rhythms and bold harmonies. The movement builds to a thrilling climax before gradually winding down to a peaceful conclusion. The final movement, marked "Andante," is the most introspective of the three. The lyrics, taken from a poem by Gerard Manley Hopkins, describe the speaker's longing for a deeper connection with God. Howells' music is hauntingly beautiful, with lush harmonies and soaring melodies. The movement ends on a quiet, contemplative note, leaving the listener with a sense of peace and serenity. Overall, "My Eyes for Beauty Pine" is a stunning example of Howells' mastery of choral composition. The piece showcases his ability to create rich, complex harmonies while still maintaining a sense of clarity and simplicity. The text is beautifully set, with each word and phrase given its own unique musical treatment. It is a work that is both deeply moving and musically satisfying, and it remains a beloved part of the choral repertoire to this day.

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