Composer

:

Eric Whitacre

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

2000

Average_duration

:

5:04

'Sleep' is a choral composition by Eric Whitacre, premiered in 2000. The piece is divided into four movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, "The Evening Darkens Over," sets the tone for the piece with its hauntingly beautiful harmonies and slow, deliberate pacing. The lyrics, taken from a poem by Robert Bridges, describe the gradual onset of nightfall and the sense of peace that comes with it. The second movement, "Upon the Water," is a stark contrast to the first. It is much more lively and upbeat, with a driving rhythm and playful melody. The lyrics, also taken from a Bridges poem, describe the reflection of the moon on the water and the sense of wonder it inspires. The third movement, "A Midnight's Summer Dream," is perhaps the most ethereal and dreamlike of the four. The lyrics, taken from a Shakespeare play, describe the magical world of fairies and the sense of enchantment that comes with it. The music is soft and delicate, with a sense of otherworldliness that perfectly captures the mood of the text. The final movement, "Come, Sleep," brings the piece to a close with a sense of calm and tranquility. The lyrics, taken from a poem by Sir Philip Sidney, describe the restful embrace of sleep and the sense of renewal it brings. The music is slow and meditative, with a sense of peace and serenity that perfectly captures the mood of the text. Overall, 'Sleep' is a stunningly beautiful piece of choral music that showcases Whitacre's skill as a composer. Its four movements each have their own unique characteristics, but together they form a cohesive whole that is both hauntingly beautiful and deeply moving.

More....