Composer

:

Herbert Howells

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

1949 - 1958

Average_duration

:

9:31

Herbert Howells' "The House of the Mind" is a choral work that was composed in 1954. It was premiered on October 21, 1954, at the Three Choirs Festival in Hereford, England. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, "The House of the Mind," is a setting of a poem by the same name by the English poet Edith Sitwell. The music is characterized by a sense of mystery and introspection, with the choir singing in a hushed, almost whispered tone. The harmonies are complex and dissonant, adding to the sense of unease and uncertainty. The second movement, "The Descent into Hell," is a setting of a text from the Book of Common Prayer. The music is more dramatic and intense than the first movement, with the choir singing in a more forceful and declamatory style. The harmonies are still complex, but there is a greater sense of resolution and release in this movement. The final movement, "The Resurrection," is a setting of a text from the Gospel of John. The music is triumphant and joyful, with the choir singing in a bright and exultant tone. The harmonies are more consonant and straightforward than in the previous movements, reflecting the sense of resolution and completion that comes with the resurrection. Overall, "The House of the Mind" is a powerful and deeply moving work that showcases Howells' skill as a composer and his ability to convey complex emotions through music. The piece is a testament to the enduring power of choral music and its ability to touch the hearts and minds of listeners.

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