Composer

:

Steve Reich

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1995

Average_duration

:

14:08

Proverb is a minimalist composition by Steve Reich, composed in 1995. It was premiered on May 10, 1995, at the Royal Festival Hall in London, by the Theatre of Voices and the Steve Reich Ensemble. The piece is scored for three sopranos, two tenors, and two vibraphones. Proverb is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a different proverb. The first movement is based on the proverb "How small a thought it takes to fill a whole life." The second movement is based on the proverb "You are where your thoughts are." The third movement is based on the proverb "Speech is silver, silence is golden." The piece is characterized by its use of repetition and gradual change. The vocal parts are sung in a rhythmic, chant-like style, with the sopranos and tenors singing in unison or in canon. The vibraphones provide a steady pulse, with occasional melodic interjections. The first movement begins with a simple melody sung by the sopranos, which is gradually joined by the tenors. The melody is repeated and varied, with the addition of new harmonies and rhythms. The second movement features a more complex vocal texture, with the sopranos and tenors singing in canon. The vibraphones provide a shimmering, ethereal accompaniment. The third movement is the most sparse and meditative of the three. The vocal parts are sung in a hushed, almost whispered tone, with long pauses between phrases. The vibraphones provide a gentle, pulsing accompaniment. Overall, Proverb is a hauntingly beautiful work that showcases Reich's mastery of minimalism. Its use of repetition and gradual change creates a hypnotic, trance-like effect that draws the listener in and holds their attention throughout the piece.

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