Composer

:

Granville Bantock

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Oratorio

Compose Date

:

1906

Average_duration

:

170:59

'Omar Khayyam' is a symphonic poem composed by Granville Bantock in 1906. It was premiered on October 23, 1909, at the Queen's Hall in London, conducted by the composer himself. The piece is inspired by the Persian poet and mathematician Omar Khayyam, who lived in the 11th century. The symphonic poem is divided into four movements, each representing a different aspect of Khayyam's life and work. The first movement, titled "The Garden of Omar Khayyam," is a lush and romantic depiction of the poet's love for nature and his appreciation of the beauty of the world. The second movement, "The Wine of Omar Khayyam," is a lively and energetic portrayal of the poet's love for wine and revelry. The third movement, "The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam," is the centerpiece of the symphonic poem. It is a setting of four of Khayyam's quatrains, or rubaiyat, which are philosophical and contemplative in nature. The music is introspective and reflective, with a sense of melancholy and longing. The final movement, "The Tomb of Omar Khayyam," is a somber and mournful reflection on the poet's death and legacy. The music is slow and mournful, with a sense of finality and closure. Overall, 'Omar Khayyam' is a rich and evocative work that captures the spirit of the poet and his work. Bantock's use of exotic scales and rhythms, as well as his lush orchestration, create a vivid and immersive musical landscape that transports the listener to another time and place. The piece is a testament to Bantock's skill as a composer and his deep appreciation for the poetry and culture of the Middle East.

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