Composer

:

Percy Grainger

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

2:39

"Mary Thomson" is a choral work composed by Percy Grainger in 1902. The piece was premiered in London in 1903 by the Royal College of Music Chorus. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, "Mary Thomson," is a lively and energetic setting of a Scottish folk song. The melody is passed between the different sections of the choir, creating a sense of call and response. The harmonies are rich and complex, with Grainger using dissonance to create tension and release. The movement ends with a rousing chorus, with the choir singing in unison. The second movement, "The Three Ravens," is a haunting setting of an English folk song. The melody is sung by the altos, with the other sections of the choir providing a rich harmonic background. The piece is characterized by its use of suspensions and unresolved harmonies, creating a sense of unease and tension. The movement ends with a quiet and contemplative coda. The final movement, "The Bride's Tragedy," is a dramatic setting of a Scottish ballad. The piece begins with a mournful solo by the soprano, accompanied by a simple piano accompaniment. The choir then enters, singing in a hushed and mournful tone. The piece builds to a climax, with the choir singing in full voice. The movement ends with a quiet and reflective coda. Overall, "Mary Thomson" is a masterful example of Grainger's skill as a choral composer. The piece showcases his ability to create complex harmonies and use dissonance to create tension and release. The work is also notable for its use of folk melodies, which were a recurring theme in Grainger's compositions.

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