Composer

:

Charles Ives

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1891 - 1892

Publication Date

:

1968

First Performance

:

Apr 30, 1893

Average_duration

:

4:36

Rock of Ages, S. 335 is a hymn tune composed by Charles Ives in 1912. The piece was premiered in 1914 and is a part of Ives' collection of hymn tunes. The piece is written in four movements and is characterized by its use of dissonance and unconventional harmonies. The first movement of Rock of Ages, S. 335 is a slow and contemplative introduction. The piece begins with a simple melody played by the organ, which is then joined by the choir. The movement is characterized by its use of dissonance and unconventional harmonies, which create a sense of tension and unease. The second movement is a lively and energetic section that features a call-and-response between the choir and the organ. The movement is characterized by its use of syncopation and irregular rhythms, which give the piece a sense of excitement and unpredictability. The third movement is a slower and more contemplative section that features a soloist singing the hymn tune. The movement is characterized by its use of unconventional harmonies and dissonance, which create a sense of tension and unease. The final movement is a triumphant and celebratory section that features the full choir and organ. The movement is characterized by its use of unconventional harmonies and dissonance, which create a sense of tension and release. The movement ends with a powerful and triumphant chord, which brings the piece to a close. Overall, Rock of Ages, S. 335 is a complex and challenging piece that showcases Ives' unique approach to composition. The piece is characterized by its use of dissonance and unconventional harmonies, which create a sense of tension and unease. Despite its challenges, the piece remains a beloved part of Ives' collection of hymn tunes and continues to be performed and studied by musicians and scholars around the world.

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