Composer

:

Percy Grainger

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1945 - 1947

Publication Date

:

1958

Average_duration

:

4:10

"The Only Son" is a chamber work composed by Percy Grainger in 1904. It premiered on May 10, 1904, at the Aeolian Hall in London. The piece is written for soprano, tenor, optional chorus, and chamber ensemble. The work is divided into three movements. The first movement, "The Only Son," is a setting of a poem by John Masefield. It is a mournful and melancholic piece that tells the story of a mother who has lost her only son in war. The music is slow and somber, with long, sustained notes in the strings and a haunting melody in the soprano and tenor voices. The second movement, "The Three Ravens," is a traditional English folk song arranged by Grainger. It is a lively and energetic piece that contrasts sharply with the first movement. The music is fast-paced and rhythmic, with a playful melody that is passed between the different instruments. The final movement, "The Widow's Party," is another setting of a poem by John Masefield. It is a more upbeat and celebratory piece that tells the story of a widow who throws a party to celebrate her son's safe return from war. The music is lively and festive, with a catchy melody that is sung by the chorus. Overall, "The Only Son" is a powerful and emotional work that showcases Grainger's skill as a composer. The piece is notable for its use of traditional folk songs and poetry, as well as its unique instrumentation and vocal arrangements.

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