Composer

:

Ned Rorem

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1973

Average_duration

:

2:39

Ned Rorem's 'Thee, God' is a choral work that was composed in 1957. It was premiered on May 5, 1957, by the Harvard Glee Club, under the direction of G. Wallace Woodworth. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, titled 'Thee, God', is a setting of a poem by Walt Whitman. It begins with a slow, meditative introduction, featuring a solo tenor voice. The choir then enters, singing in unison, before breaking into four-part harmony. The music is characterized by its flowing, lyrical lines, which reflect the poem's themes of spirituality and transcendence. The second movement, 'Thee, Nature', is a setting of another Whitman poem. It is more lively and rhythmic than the first movement, with a driving, syncopated accompaniment. The choir sings in a call-and-response style, with the tenors and basses alternating with the altos and sopranos. The music is characterized by its energy and vitality, reflecting the poem's celebration of the natural world. The final movement, 'Thee, Spirit', is a setting of a poem by Rorem himself. It is the most introspective and contemplative of the three movements, with a slow, mournful melody. The choir sings in a hushed, reverent tone, with the harmonies shifting subtly throughout the piece. The music is characterized by its sense of longing and yearning, reflecting the poem's themes of spiritual searching and questioning. Overall, 'Thee, God' is a powerful and moving work, showcasing Rorem's skill as a composer and his ability to capture the essence of the texts he sets to music. Its three movements offer a range of moods and emotions, from the meditative and contemplative to the joyful and celebratory. It remains a beloved piece in the choral repertoire, and a testament to Rorem's enduring legacy as a composer.

More....