Composer

:

Charles Ives

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1902

Publication Date

:

1922

First Performance

:

Mar 1, 1932

Average_duration

:

1:11

'Rough Wind, S. 339' is a composition by Charles Ives, an American composer known for his experimental and innovative approach to music. The piece was composed in 1921 and premiered in 1922. It is a part of Ives' collection of songs called '114 Songs', which he composed over a period of 40 years. 'Rough Wind, S. 339' is a song for voice and piano, and it consists of three movements. The first movement is marked 'Allegro con fuoco' and is characterized by its fast and energetic tempo. The second movement is marked 'Andante con moto' and is slower and more contemplative in nature. The final movement is marked 'Allegro' and is again fast-paced and energetic. The lyrics of 'Rough Wind, S. 339' are taken from Shakespeare's play 'King Lear'. The song is a setting of the famous speech by King Lear in Act III, Scene 2, where he laments the cruelty of the world and the harshness of the elements. The lyrics are full of vivid imagery and powerful emotions, and Ives' music captures the intensity and drama of the text. The music of 'Rough Wind, S. 339' is typical of Ives' style, which is characterized by its use of dissonance, polytonality, and unconventional harmonies. The piano part is particularly complex, with multiple layers of melody and rhythm that create a sense of chaos and turbulence. The vocal part is equally challenging, with wide leaps and sudden changes in dynamics that require a skilled and expressive singer. Overall, 'Rough Wind, S. 339' is a powerful and dramatic composition that showcases Ives' unique musical vision. Its combination of Shakespearean poetry and experimental music makes it a fascinating and challenging work for performers and audiences alike.

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