Composer

:

Edward Elgar

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

ca. 1875

Average_duration

:

3:58

"The Self-Banished" is a song cycle composed by Edward Elgar in 1904. It was premiered on 22 November 1904 at the Aeolian Hall in London, with the composer himself accompanying the singer, Muriel Foster. The cycle consists of six songs, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first song, "The Wanderer," sets the tone for the cycle with its melancholic melody and introspective lyrics. The second song, "The Power of Love," is more upbeat and optimistic, with a lively rhythm and soaring vocal lines. The third song, "The Sorrow of Love," returns to a more somber mood, with a haunting melody and poignant lyrics. The fourth song, "In the Dawn," is a beautiful and ethereal piece, with delicate piano accompaniment and soaring vocal lines. The fifth song, "The Prince of Sleep," is a lullaby-like piece, with a gentle melody and soothing lyrics. The final song, "The Praises of God," is a triumphant and uplifting piece, with a majestic melody and powerful lyrics. Throughout the cycle, Elgar's use of melody, harmony, and rhythm is masterful, creating a rich and varied musical landscape that perfectly complements the emotional depth and complexity of the lyrics. The cycle is a testament to Elgar's skill as a composer and his ability to capture the essence of human emotion in music.

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