Composer

:

George Walker

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1995

Average_duration

:

14:24

George Walker's "Lilacs" is a composition for voice and orchestra that was composed in 1985. The piece was premiered on May 10, 1986, by the Boston Symphony Orchestra, with Seiji Ozawa conducting and Jessye Norman as the soloist. The composition is based on a poem by Walt Whitman, titled "When Lilacs Last in the Dooryard Bloom'd," which was written in memory of Abraham Lincoln. The piece is divided into three movements, each of which reflects a different aspect of the poem. The first movement, "Lilacs," is a slow and mournful piece that sets the tone for the entire composition. The second movement, "Whispers of Heavenly Death," is more upbeat and features a faster tempo. The final movement, "Dirge for Two Veterans," is the most somber of the three and features a slow and mournful melody. One of the most notable characteristics of "Lilacs" is its use of orchestration. The piece features a large orchestra, including strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. The orchestration is used to create a rich and complex sound that reflects the emotions of the poem. The use of the orchestra also allows the composer to create a sense of depth and texture that adds to the overall impact of the piece. Another characteristic of "Lilacs" is its use of vocal techniques. The soloist is required to use a variety of vocal techniques, including vibrato, falsetto, and glissando. These techniques are used to create a sense of emotion and depth in the piece. The soloist is also required to sing in a range of different styles, from soft and mournful to loud and powerful. Overall, "Lilacs" is a powerful and emotional composition that reflects the themes of loss and mourning. The piece is a testament to the skill and creativity of George Walker, who was the first African American to win the Pulitzer Prize for Music.

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