Composer

:

Charles Ives

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Art Song

Compose Date

:

1916

Publication Date

:

1922

First Performance

:

Nov 17, 1936

Average_duration

:

1:36

"At the River, S. 214" is a choral work composed by Charles Ives in 1922. The piece is based on the hymn "Shall We Gather at the River?" by Robert Lowry. It was premiered in 1922 by the choir of the First Presbyterian Church in New Haven, Connecticut. The piece is divided into three movements. The first movement is a simple and straightforward setting of the hymn tune. The second movement is a more complex and harmonically adventurous variation on the hymn. The third movement returns to the simplicity of the first movement, but with a more elaborate and expressive treatment of the melody. One of the characteristics of "At the River" is Ives' use of dissonance and unconventional harmonies. He often juxtaposes traditional hymn harmonies with more modern and experimental harmonies, creating a unique and striking sound. Another characteristic is his use of polytonality, where two or more keys are played simultaneously, creating a disorienting effect. The piece is also notable for its use of silence and space. Ives often leaves gaps between phrases, allowing the music to breathe and creating a sense of anticipation and tension. "At the River" is a beautiful and moving work that showcases Ives' unique style and innovative approach to composition. Its combination of traditional hymnody with modernist techniques makes it a fascinating and rewarding piece to listen to.

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