Composer

:

Aaron Copland

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata: Choral

Compose Date

:

1947

Average_duration

:

16:30

In the Beginning is a choral work composed by Aaron Copland in 1947. It was premiered on May 8, 1947, by the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the Berkshire Festival Chorus, conducted by Serge Koussevitzky. The piece is divided into three movements, each depicting a different aspect of the creation story from the Book of Genesis. The first movement, "Genesis I," begins with a slow, mysterious introduction that gradually builds in intensity as the choir sings the words "In the beginning." The music then becomes more rhythmic and energetic as the choir describes the creation of light, the separation of the waters, and the formation of the earth. The second movement, "Genesis II," is a slower, more contemplative section that focuses on the creation of man. The choir sings of God's breath giving life to Adam, and the music is characterized by long, flowing lines and a sense of awe and wonder. The final movement, "Genesis III," is the most exuberant and celebratory of the three. It begins with a lively, syncopated rhythm that suggests the joy of creation, and the choir sings of the animals, the stars, and the beauty of the world. The music builds to a triumphant climax as the choir proclaims "And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good." Throughout the piece, Copland's characteristic style is evident in the use of open harmonies, simple melodies, and folk-like rhythms. The music is often described as "American" in its sound, reflecting Copland's interest in creating a distinctively American classical music. In the Beginning is a powerful and moving work that captures the grandeur and mystery of the creation story, and it remains a beloved piece in the choral repertoire.

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