Composer

:

Jean Sibelius

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Carol

Compose Date

:

1935

Average_duration

:

3:15

"We Ask for Nothing Rich or Rare" is a choral work for male voices composed by Jean Sibelius. It was his fourth opus and was composed in 1899. The piece was premiered in Helsinki on May 13, 1899, by the Helsinki University Chorus. The work is divided into three movements. The first movement is marked "Moderato" and is in 4/4 time. It begins with a unison statement of the main theme, which is then developed through various harmonizations and counterpoints. The second movement is marked "Andante" and is in 3/4 time. It features a solo tenor singing a melancholic melody, which is then taken up by the full chorus. The final movement is marked "Allegro" and is in 2/4 time. It is a lively and energetic movement, featuring a call-and-response between the tenors and basses. The piece is characterized by Sibelius's use of rich harmonies and lush textures. The main theme is based on a Finnish folk melody, which Sibelius uses as a basis for his own melodic and harmonic ideas. The work also features Sibelius's signature use of modal scales and chromatic harmonies. "We Ask for Nothing Rich or Rare" is a patriotic work, expressing the Finnish people's desire for freedom and independence. The text, written by Zacharias Topelius, speaks of the beauty of Finland's natural landscape and the strength and resilience of its people. The work was an immediate success and helped establish Sibelius as one of Finland's leading composers. Overall, "We Ask for Nothing Rich or Rare" is a beautiful and stirring work, showcasing Sibelius's skill as a composer and his deep connection to his homeland. Its rich harmonies and powerful melodies make it a beloved piece in the choral repertoire.

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