Composer

:

Aaron Copland

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1925

Movement_count

:

2

Movement ....

Aaron Copland's 'Choruses (2)' is a choral work that was composed in 1957. The piece was premiered on May 2, 1957, by the New York Philharmonic Orchestra and the Westminster Choir, conducted by Leonard Bernstein. The work consists of two movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, titled "The Lark," is a setting of a poem by Robert Graves. The music is light and airy, with a sense of flight and freedom that reflects the poem's subject matter. The choir sings in unison for much of the movement, with occasional harmonies and counterpoint. The music is characterized by its use of open intervals and modal harmonies, which give it a folk-like quality. The second movement, titled "The Dodger," is a setting of a poem by Archibald MacLeish. The music is more rhythmic and energetic than the first movement, with a sense of urgency and excitement that reflects the poem's subject matter. The choir sings in a more complex texture, with frequent harmonies and counterpoint. The music is characterized by its use of syncopated rhythms and dissonant harmonies, which give it a more modernist quality. Overall, 'Choruses (2)' is a work that showcases Copland's ability to write for choir. The music is accessible and engaging, with a sense of lyricism and drama that is characteristic of Copland's style. The work is a testament to Copland's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that speaks to a wide audience.

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