Composer

:

Ola Gjeilo

Genre

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

7:34

Tundra is a choral work composed by Norwegian composer Ola Gjeilo in 2011. It was premiered by the Phoenix Chorale in the same year. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, titled "The First Snow," begins with a soft and gentle melody sung by the choir. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the addition of percussion and piano. The lyrics describe the beauty of the first snowfall, and the music reflects this with its delicate and ethereal quality. The second movement, "Tundra," is the centerpiece of the piece. It features a solo cello, which plays a haunting melody that is then echoed by the choir. The music is sparse and atmospheric, evoking the vast and desolate landscape of the tundra. The lyrics describe the harshness of the environment, and the music reflects this with its dissonant harmonies and sparse instrumentation. The final movement, "The Ground," is a return to the gentle and peaceful mood of the first movement. The choir sings a simple melody, accompanied by piano and percussion. The lyrics describe the beauty of the earth and the importance of preserving it. The music is uplifting and optimistic, with a sense of hope for the future. Overall, Tundra is a stunning work that showcases Gjeilo's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its use of ethereal harmonies, sparse instrumentation, and haunting melodies. The lyrics are poetic and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the natural world. Tundra is a powerful reminder of the beauty and fragility of our planet, and the importance of preserving it for future generations.

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