Composer

:

Ernst Bacon

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1960

Average_duration

:

1:12

Ernst Bacon's 'So Bashful' is a vocal composition for soprano and piano, composed in 1940. The piece was premiered on March 10, 1941, at the New School for Social Research in New York City, with the composer himself accompanying the soprano, Marjorie Lawrence. The composition consists of three movements, each of which is based on a poem by Emily Dickinson. The first movement, 'So Bashful When I Spied Her', is a delicate and introspective piece that captures the shy and hesitant nature of the poem's subject. The second movement, 'I Taste a Liquor Never Brewed', is a lively and playful piece that reflects the exuberance and joy of the poem's imagery. The final movement, 'I'm Nobody! Who Are You?', is a contemplative and introspective piece that explores the themes of identity and self-discovery. Bacon's composition is characterized by its lyrical melodies, expressive harmonies, and sensitive treatment of the text. The vocal line is often accompanied by a sparse and delicate piano accompaniment, which allows the words of the poem to take center stage. The composition also features a range of vocal techniques, including recitative-like passages, melismatic lines, and expressive vibrato. Overall, 'So Bashful' is a beautiful and evocative composition that showcases Bacon's skill as a composer and his sensitivity to the nuances of poetry. Its three movements offer a range of moods and emotions, making it a compelling and engaging work for both performers and audiences alike.

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