Composer

:

William Levi Dawson

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

4:05

"Behold The Star" is a choral work composed by William Levi Dawson, an African-American composer and arranger, in 1951. The piece was premiered by the Tuskegee Institute Choir, which Dawson directed, in the same year. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and musical style. The first movement, "Rise Up, Shepherd, and Follow," is a lively and rhythmic setting of the traditional spiritual. The choir sings the melody in unison, with occasional harmonies and counterpoint added for emphasis. The accompaniment is provided by piano and percussion, which add to the driving rhythm of the piece. The second movement, "Behold That Star," is a slower and more contemplative setting of the spiritual. The choir sings in four-part harmony, with the melody passed between the different sections. The accompaniment is provided by piano and strings, which create a warm and rich texture that supports the choir's singing. The final movement, "Wise Men Saw the Star," is a triumphant and celebratory setting of the spiritual. The choir sings in six-part harmony, with the melody passed between the different sections. The accompaniment is provided by piano, brass, and percussion, which create a grand and majestic sound that reflects the joy and wonder of the Christmas story. Overall, "Behold The Star" is a powerful and moving work that showcases Dawson's skill as a composer and arranger. The piece combines traditional spirituals with modern musical techniques to create a unique and compelling sound that is both timeless and contemporary.

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