Composer

:

Jake Heggie

Genre

:

Vocal

Compose Date

:

2015

First Performance

:

September 12, 2015

Average_duration

:

15:32

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

'Iconic Legacies: First Ladies at the Smithsonian' is a song cycle composed by Jake Heggie, with lyrics by Gene Scheer. The work was commissioned by the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History and premiered on March 1, 2019, in the museum's theater. The song cycle consists of nine movements, each dedicated to a different First Lady of the United States. The movements are titled: "Martha Washington," "Abigail Adams," "Dolley Madison," "Mary Todd Lincoln," "Edith Roosevelt," "Grace Coolidge," "Eleanor Roosevelt," "Jacqueline Kennedy," and "Lady Bird Johnson." Each movement is characterized by a unique musical style and vocal range, reflecting the personality and legacy of the First Lady it represents. For example, the movement dedicated to Martha Washington is a gentle lullaby, while the movement dedicated to Jacqueline Kennedy is a dramatic and emotional ballad. The lyrics of the song cycle explore the lives and legacies of these influential women, highlighting their accomplishments and struggles. The work also touches on broader themes of American history, such as the struggle for women's rights and the impact of war on the nation. Overall, 'Iconic Legacies: First Ladies at the Smithsonian' is a powerful tribute to the women who have shaped American history and culture. Through its beautiful music and poignant lyrics, the work celebrates the enduring legacy of these iconic figures and inspires audiences to reflect on their own place in history.

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