Composer

:

Edward Elgar

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1912

Average_duration

:

38:35

Movement_count

:

10

Movement ....

Edward Elgar's "The Music Makers, Op. 69" is a choral work that was composed in 1912. It was premiered on October 1, 1912, at the Birmingham Festival, with Elgar conducting the City of Birmingham Orchestra and Chorus. The work is divided into six movements and is based on a poem by Arthur O'Shaughnessy. The first movement, "We are the music makers," begins with a solo soprano singing the opening lines of the poem. The choir then joins in, singing about the power of music to inspire and uplift the soul. The movement is characterized by its soaring melodies and lush harmonies. The second movement, "With wonderful deathless ditties," is a lively scherzo that celebrates the joy of creating music. The choir sings about the pleasure of composing and performing music, while the orchestra provides a lively accompaniment. The third movement, "We, in the ages lying," is a slow and contemplative piece that reflects on the enduring power of music. The choir sings about how music has been a constant presence throughout history, inspiring and comforting people in times of joy and sorrow. The fourth movement, "A breath of our inspiration," is a short interlude that features a solo violin playing a haunting melody. The movement serves as a bridge between the third and fifth movements. The fifth movement, "They had no vision amazing," is a powerful and dramatic piece that contrasts the beauty of music with the ugliness of war. The choir sings about how music can provide solace in times of conflict, while the orchestra provides a stirring accompaniment. The final movement, "But we, with our dreaming and singing," is a triumphant conclusion to the work. The choir sings about how music can inspire people to dream and create, and how it can bring people together in a shared experience of beauty and joy. The movement ends with a soaring climax that celebrates the power of music to uplift the human spirit. Overall, "The Music Makers" is a deeply emotional and powerful work that celebrates the beauty and power of music. Elgar's lush harmonies and soaring melodies create a sense of grandeur and majesty, while the choir's lyrics reflect on the enduring importance of music in human life.

More....