Composer

:

Peter Warlock

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Art Song

Compose Date

:

1922

Average_duration

:

2:43

Peter Warlock's 'Sleep, for voice & piano' is a beautiful and haunting song cycle that was composed in 1922. The piece was premiered in London in the same year, and has since become one of Warlock's most popular works. The song cycle consists of three movements, each of which is based on a poem by John Fletcher. The first movement, 'Invocation to Sleep', is a gentle and dreamy piece that sets the tone for the rest of the cycle. The second movement, 'Midnight's Bell', is more dramatic and intense, with a sense of urgency and foreboding. The final movement, 'Epilogue', is a peaceful and reflective piece that brings the cycle to a close. One of the most striking characteristics of 'Sleep' is Warlock's use of harmony and melody. The music is often dissonant and unpredictable, with unexpected chord changes and unusual intervals. This creates a sense of unease and tension that perfectly complements the dark and mysterious themes of the poems. Another notable feature of the piece is Warlock's use of vocal technique. The vocal line is often quite challenging, with wide leaps and intricate rhythms. The piano part is also highly virtuosic, with complex textures and rapid figurations. Overall, 'Sleep, for voice & piano' is a masterpiece of early 20th century English art song. Its haunting melodies, complex harmonies, and evocative texts make it a timeless work that continues to captivate audiences today.

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