Composer

:

Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1947

Average_duration

:

11:03

Naomi and Ruth, Op. 137 is a chamber cantata composed by Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco in 1956. The piece is based on the biblical story of Naomi and Ruth, and it was premiered on May 6, 1957, in Los Angeles, California. The cantata consists of three movements, each of which tells a different part of the story. The first movement, "Naomi's Lament," is a solo for mezzo-soprano that sets the scene for the story. Naomi, a widow, has lost her husband and two sons and is left with her two daughters-in-law. She laments her fate and decides to return to her homeland. The second movement, "Ruth's Vow," is a duet for mezzo-soprano and soprano. Ruth, one of Naomi's daughters-in-law, decides to stay with Naomi and accompany her to her homeland. She makes a vow to Naomi, saying, "Where you go, I will go; where you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God my God." The final movement, "The Harvest," is a trio for mezzo-soprano, soprano, and tenor. It tells the story of Ruth's work in the fields, where she meets Boaz, a wealthy landowner. Boaz is impressed by Ruth's loyalty to Naomi and her hard work, and he offers her protection and assistance. The music of Naomi and Ruth, Op. 137 is characterized by its lyrical melodies, lush harmonies, and expressive use of vocal and instrumental textures. Castelnuovo-Tedesco's writing for the voice is particularly notable, as he creates a sense of intimacy and emotional depth through his use of vocal timbres and phrasing. Overall, Naomi and Ruth, Op. 137 is a powerful and moving work that captures the essence of the biblical story. Its combination of expressive music and poignant text makes it a standout piece in Castelnuovo-Tedesco's oeuvre.

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