Composer

:

Ned Rorem

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1946

Average_duration

:

1:11

"On a Singing Girl" is a song cycle composed by Ned Rorem in 1960. The premiere of the work was given by soprano Phyllis Curtin and pianist John Wustman at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. on April 28, 1961. The cycle consists of five songs, each with its own unique character and mood. The first song, "The Serpent," is a lively and playful piece that showcases the singer's agility and range. The piano accompaniment is light and bouncy, with frequent shifts in rhythm and tempo. The second song, "The Faun," is a more introspective piece that explores the darker side of the human psyche. The piano accompaniment is sparse and haunting, with long, sustained chords that create a sense of unease. The third song, "The Sea," is a dramatic and powerful piece that captures the majesty and power of the ocean. The piano accompaniment is grand and sweeping, with crashing chords and rolling arpeggios that evoke the sound of waves. The fourth song, "The Bird," is a delicate and ethereal piece that captures the beauty and fragility of nature. The piano accompaniment is light and airy, with delicate trills and runs that evoke the sound of birdsong. The final song, "The Flower," is a tender and romantic piece that celebrates the beauty and joy of love. The piano accompaniment is gentle and flowing, with lush harmonies and soaring melodies that capture the emotional intensity of the lyrics. Overall, "On a Singing Girl" is a masterful work that showcases Rorem's skill as a composer and his ability to capture a wide range of moods and emotions through music. The cycle is a testament to the power of the human voice and the beauty of the natural world, and it remains a beloved work in the repertoire of many singers and pianists today.

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