Composer

:

David Ashley White

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1998

Average_duration

:

10:39

David Ashley White's "The Blue Estuaries" is a choral work that was composed in 2005. It premiered on April 2, 2006, at the First United Methodist Church in Houston, Texas. The piece is divided into four movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, "The Blue Estuaries," is a setting of a poem by Louise Bogan. It begins with a gentle, flowing melody in the sopranos and altos, which is then taken up by the tenors and basses. The music builds to a climax before subsiding into a quiet, reflective ending. The second movement, "The Fish," is a setting of a poem by Elizabeth Bishop. It is a lively and playful piece, with a syncopated rhythm and a jaunty melody. The choir imitates the sound of fish swimming in the water, with the voices darting and weaving around each other. The third movement, "The River-Merchant's Wife: A Letter," is a setting of a poem by Ezra Pound. It is a tender and introspective piece, with a simple, flowing melody that is passed between the different sections of the choir. The music builds to a climax before returning to the gentle opening theme. The final movement, "The River," is a setting of a poem by A.E. Housman. It is a powerful and dramatic piece, with a driving rhythm and soaring melodies. The choir sings of the river's power and majesty, with the music building to a triumphant conclusion. Overall, "The Blue Estuaries" is a beautiful and evocative choral work that showcases David Ashley White's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its lush harmonies, flowing melodies, and vivid imagery, and it is sure to be a favorite of choirs and audiences alike.

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