Composer

:

John Tavener

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1984

Average_duration

:

41:42

Movement_count

:

7

Movement ....

"Ikon of Light" is a choral work composed by John Tavener in 1984. It was premiered on October 6, 1984, at the Liverpool Cathedral by the Liverpool Cathedral Choir, conducted by David Poulter. The piece is divided into three movements, each of which is characterized by its own unique musical style and mood. The first movement, titled "The Uncreated Eros," is a slow and meditative piece that features a solo soprano voice singing a text from the writings of St. Symeon the New Theologian. The music is characterized by its use of long, sustained chords and a simple, chant-like melody. The overall effect is one of contemplation and introspection. The second movement, titled "The Eternal Liturgy," is a more lively and celebratory piece that features the full choir singing a text from the Orthodox liturgy. The music is characterized by its use of complex harmonies and rhythms, as well as its use of traditional Orthodox chant melodies. The overall effect is one of joy and exaltation. The third and final movement, titled "The Uncreated Eros II," is a return to the meditative mood of the first movement. It features a solo tenor voice singing a text from the writings of St. Symeon the New Theologian, accompanied by a simple organ accompaniment. The music is characterized by its use of long, sustained chords and a simple, chant-like melody, similar to the first movement. The overall effect is one of peacefulness and serenity. Overall, "Ikon of Light" is a powerful and moving work that showcases Tavener's unique style and his deep spiritual beliefs. The piece is characterized by its use of traditional Orthodox chant melodies, complex harmonies and rhythms, and a sense of contemplation and introspection. It remains one of Tavener's most popular and enduring works, and is widely regarded as a masterpiece of modern choral music.

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