Composer

:

William Schuman

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1944

Average_duration

:

2:44

William Schuman's "Orpheus with His Lute" is a choral work that was composed in 1946. It was premiered on May 9, 1946, by the New York Philharmonic under the direction of Artur Rodzinski. The piece is based on a text by William Shakespeare, which describes Orpheus, the legendary musician of Greek mythology, playing his lute and singing to his beloved Eurydice in the underworld. The work is divided into three movements, each of which has its own distinct character. The first movement, marked "Moderato," begins with a gentle, flowing melody in the choir, accompanied by a simple, repetitive figure in the piano. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the choir singing in unison and then in harmony, before subsiding back into the gentle opening theme. The second movement, marked "Allegro," is more lively and rhythmic, with the choir singing a syncopated melody over a driving piano accompaniment. The music is full of energy and vitality, reflecting the joy and passion of Orpheus as he sings to his beloved. The final movement, marked "Andante," is more contemplative and introspective, with the choir singing a haunting melody over a sparse piano accompaniment. The music is full of longing and sadness, reflecting the tragic end of Orpheus and Eurydice's love story. Overall, "Orpheus with His Lute" is a beautiful and evocative work that showcases Schuman's skill as a composer. The music is full of rich harmonies, lush textures, and expressive melodies, and the text by Shakespeare adds an extra layer of depth and meaning to the piece. It remains a beloved work in the choral repertoire to this day.

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