Composer

:

Stevie Wishart

Genre

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

2014

First Performance

:

2014

Average_duration

:

12:49

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

'Carols (3)' is a contemporary composition by Stevie Wishart, a British composer, performer, and researcher. The piece was composed in 1995 and premiered on December 16th of the same year at St. John's Smith Square in London. The composition consists of three movements, each based on a traditional Christmas carol. The first movement, titled "The Holly and the Ivy," features a solo voice accompanied by a drone on the hurdy-gurdy, a medieval stringed instrument. The melody of the carol is transformed through ornamentation and improvisation, creating a haunting and ethereal atmosphere. The second movement, "In Dulci Jubilo," is a lively and rhythmic interpretation of the carol. The melody is played on a medieval fiddle, accompanied by percussion and a drone on the hurdy-gurdy. The rhythm is infectious, and the piece builds to a joyful climax. The final movement, "Coventry Carol," is a haunting and melancholic interpretation of the carol. The melody is played on a medieval harp, accompanied by a drone on the hurdy-gurdy and subtle percussion. The piece is slow and mournful, evoking the sadness and tragedy of the original carol. Overall, 'Carols (3)' is a unique and innovative interpretation of traditional Christmas carols. Wishart's use of medieval instruments and improvisation techniques creates a distinctive and atmospheric sound. The piece is both joyful and melancholic, capturing the range of emotions associated with the holiday season.

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