Composer

:

Erik Bergman

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Compose Date

:

1979

Average_duration

:

18:31

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Erik Bergman's 'Birds in the Morning, Op. 89' is a composition for mixed choir and percussion, premiered on May 17, 1984, in Helsinki, Finland. The piece is divided into three movements, each of which is characterized by the sounds of birds and the natural world. The first movement, 'Dawn Chorus,' begins with the sound of a single bird, gradually building to a chorus of birdsong. The choir enters with a series of sustained chords, creating a sense of stillness and anticipation. The percussion adds to the atmosphere with gentle rustling sounds, evoking the rustling of leaves in the wind. The movement ends with a return to the solo bird, signaling the start of a new day. The second movement, 'The Dance of the Birds,' is more rhythmic and lively. The choir sings in a playful, syncopated rhythm, imitating the sounds of birds in flight. The percussion adds to the sense of movement with a variety of instruments, including shakers, bells, and drums. The movement ends with a sudden stop, as if the birds have flown away. The final movement, 'The Silence of the Forest,' is the most contemplative of the three. The choir sings in a hushed, almost whispered tone, creating a sense of stillness and peace. The percussion is used sparingly, with occasional soft taps and rustling sounds. The movement ends with a return to the solo bird, signaling the end of the day and the return of the night. Overall, 'Birds in the Morning' is a beautiful and evocative piece that captures the sounds and rhythms of the natural world. Bergman's use of percussion adds depth and texture to the choir's singing, creating a rich and immersive listening experience.

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