Composer

:

Bohuslav Martinu

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata

Compose Date

:

Jul 1955

Publication Date

:

1956

First Performance

:

Dec 7, 1955

Average_duration

:

27:02

Bohuslav Martinu's 'Otvírání studánek, H. 354' is a chamber cantata composed in 1955. The piece was premiered on June 10, 1955, in Basel, Switzerland, by the Basel Chamber Orchestra and the Basel Chamber Choir, conducted by Paul Sacher. The cantata is based on a collection of Moravian folk poetry, which Martinu had collected during his youth. The cantata consists of six movements, each of which is based on a different poem. The first movement, 'Opening of the Wells,' is a lively and rhythmic piece that sets the tone for the rest of the cantata. The second movement, 'The Water Nymph,' is a slow and lyrical piece that features a solo soprano and a solo cello. The third movement, 'The Water Sprite,' is a playful and energetic piece that features a solo tenor and a solo flute. The fourth movement, 'The Waterfall,' is a dramatic and powerful piece that features the full choir and orchestra. The fifth movement, 'The Water Mill,' is a gentle and peaceful piece that features a solo baritone and a solo violin. The final movement, 'The Water Lily,' is a joyful and celebratory piece that brings the cantata to a close. The characteristics of 'Otvírání studánek' are deeply rooted in Moravian folk music. Martinu's use of folk poetry and traditional melodies gives the piece a distinctly Czech flavor. The cantata also features Martinu's signature use of polytonality and complex rhythms, which add a modern twist to the traditional folk music. Overall, 'Otvírání studánek, H. 354' is a beautiful and unique piece of music that showcases Martinu's talent for blending traditional folk music with modern compositional techniques. Its premiere in 1955 was a great success, and the piece continues to be performed and enjoyed by audiences around the world.

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