Composer

:

Alan Gray

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

7:09

"What Are These That Glow from Afar?" is a choral work composed by Alan Gray, an English composer and organist, in 1912. The piece was premiered on October 16, 1912, at the Royal Albert Hall in London, England, as part of the Leeds Festival. The work is divided into four movements, each of which is based on a different text from the Bible. The first movement, "The Wilderness," is based on a passage from the Book of Isaiah and features a slow, mournful melody that evokes the desolation of the desert. The second movement, "The City," is based on a passage from the Book of Revelation and features a more upbeat, triumphant melody that celebrates the glory of the heavenly city. The third movement, "The River," is based on a passage from the Book of Ezekiel and features a flowing, watery melody that suggests the movement of a river. The final movement, "The Throne," is based on a passage from the Book of Revelation and features a majestic, regal melody that evokes the splendor of the throne of God. One of the most notable characteristics of "What Are These That Glow from Afar?" is its use of rich harmonies and lush textures. Gray employs a variety of choral techniques, including antiphonal singing, homophonic textures, and contrapuntal writing, to create a sense of depth and complexity in the music. The work also features a prominent organ part, which adds to the grandeur and majesty of the piece. Overall, "What Are These That Glow from Afar?" is a powerful and moving choral work that showcases Gray's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both beautiful and meaningful. Its premiere at the Leeds Festival was a great success, and the piece continues to be performed and admired by choral groups around the world.

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