Composer

:

John Harbison

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song Cycle

Compose Date

:

1991

Average_duration

:

19:02

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

John Harbison's "The Rewaking" is a choral work that was composed in 1988. It was premiered on April 22, 1989, by the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, conducted by Seiji Ozawa. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, "The Rewaking," is a setting of a poem by Theodore Roethke. It begins with a slow, mournful introduction that gradually builds in intensity. The choir enters with a hushed, almost whispered, rendition of the first line of the poem: "I wake to sleep, and take my waking slow." The music then becomes more animated, with the choir singing in a more forceful and energetic manner. The movement ends with a return to the mournful opening material. The second movement, "The Dance," is a setting of a poem by William Carlos Williams. It is a lively and rhythmic piece, with the choir singing in a syncopated, almost jazzy style. The music is full of energy and movement, with the choir and orchestra trading off phrases in a playful and lively manner. The final movement, "The End," is a setting of a poem by Mark Strand. It is a slow and contemplative piece, with the choir singing in a hushed and reverent manner. The music is full of rich harmonies and lush textures, with the orchestra providing a gentle and supportive accompaniment. The movement ends with a quiet and peaceful resolution, as the choir sings the final lines of the poem: "And we are changed, changed in the way we see our lives." Overall, "The Rewaking" is a powerful and moving work that showcases John Harbison's skill as a composer. The piece is full of rich harmonies, lush textures, and intricate rhythms, and the choir and orchestra work together seamlessly to create a truly memorable musical experience.

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