Composer

:

John Tavener

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

61:16

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

"Ikon of Eros" is a choral work composed by John Tavener in 1989. It was premiered on 17th June 1989 at the Cheltenham International Festival of Music. The piece is divided into three movements, each of which is characterized by a different musical style and mood. The first movement, "Eros," is a slow and meditative piece that features a solo soprano voice singing a text by the ancient Greek poet Sappho. The music is characterized by a simple, chant-like melody that is repeated and developed throughout the movement. The choir provides a gentle, ethereal accompaniment that adds to the meditative quality of the music. The second movement, "Agape," is a more lively and rhythmic piece that features a solo tenor voice singing a text by the Christian mystic St. John of the Cross. The music is characterized by a driving, syncopated rhythm that is reminiscent of African drumming. The choir provides a powerful, rhythmic accompaniment that adds to the energy and intensity of the music. The third movement, "Logos," is a slow and contemplative piece that features a solo bass voice singing a text by the Christian theologian St. Augustine. The music is characterized by a simple, chant-like melody that is repeated and developed throughout the movement. The choir provides a gentle, ethereal accompaniment that adds to the meditative quality of the music. Overall, "Ikon of Eros" is a deeply spiritual and contemplative work that draws on both ancient Greek and Christian traditions. The music is characterized by a simple, chant-like style that is both meditative and powerful. The use of solo voices and choir adds to the richness and complexity of the music, creating a work that is both deeply personal and universal in its appeal.

More....