Composer

:

Cecilia McDowall

Genre

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

2012

First Performance

:

2012

Average_duration

:

4:27

Before the Paling of the Stars is a choral work composed by Cecilia McDowall in 2014. The piece was premiered on 7th December 2014 at St John's Smith Square in London by the choir of Merton College, Oxford, conducted by Benjamin Nicholas. The piece is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a poem by Christina Rossetti. The first movement, "Echo," is a setting of Rossetti's poem of the same name. The music is characterized by a haunting melody that is passed between the different sections of the choir. The second movement, "A Birthday," is a joyful and celebratory setting of Rossetti's poem about the joy of love. The music is characterized by a lively and rhythmic melody that is accompanied by a lively piano part. The final movement, "Before the Paling of the Stars," is a setting of Rossetti's poem about the transience of life. The music is characterized by a mournful melody that is accompanied by a simple and sparse piano part. McDowall's composition is characterized by her use of rich harmonies and intricate textures. She employs a variety of choral techniques, including antiphonal singing, overlapping phrases, and complex rhythms. The music is often dissonant, but always resolves into a satisfying and beautiful harmony. Overall, Before the Paling of the Stars is a moving and powerful choral work that showcases McDowall's skill as a composer. The piece is a testament to the enduring power of Rossetti's poetry and the beauty of choral music.

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