Composer

:

Libby Larsen

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1999

Average_duration

:

2:44

'Songs from Letters, No. 3, A Man Can Love Two Women' is a song cycle composed by Libby Larsen in 1993. The piece was premiered on March 7, 1993, at the University of Minnesota by baritone David Arnold and pianist Timothy Lovelace. The cycle consists of five movements, each based on a letter written by a man to his wife and mistress during the Civil War. The first movement, "My Dearest Wife," is a tender love letter in which the man expresses his longing for his wife and his hope for their reunion. The music is lyrical and flowing, with a gentle piano accompaniment that supports the vocal line. The second movement, "My Dearest Mistress," is a passionate letter in which the man declares his love for his mistress and his desire to be with her. The music is more intense and dramatic, with a driving piano accompaniment that underscores the urgency of the man's emotions. The third movement, "I Cannot Choose," is a conflicted letter in which the man expresses his love for both his wife and his mistress and his inability to choose between them. The music is complex and dissonant, with a restless piano accompaniment that reflects the man's inner turmoil. The fourth movement, "My Dearest Wife and Mistress," is a letter in which the man attempts to reconcile his love for both women and asks for their forgiveness. The music is tender and introspective, with a delicate piano accompaniment that underscores the man's vulnerability. The final movement, "My Dearest Love," is a letter in which the man expresses his hope for peace and his longing for his loved ones. The music is serene and contemplative, with a gentle piano accompaniment that evokes a sense of calm and resolution. Overall, 'Songs from Letters, No. 3, A Man Can Love Two Women' is a powerful and emotional work that explores the complexities of love and relationships. Larsen's music is expressive and evocative, capturing the nuances of the text and bringing the letters to life through song.

More....