Composer

:

Zoltán Kodály

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1938

Publication Date

:

1938

Average_duration

:

2:59

'Evening Song' is a choral work composed by Zoltán Kodály in 1937. It was premiered in Budapest on December 12, 1937, by the Budapest Chorus, conducted by Kodály himself. The piece is written for a four-part mixed choir and is based on a Hungarian folk song. The work is divided into three movements. The first movement is marked "Andante con moto" and is in a minor key. It begins with a solo soprano voice singing the folk melody, which is then taken up by the choir. The melody is simple and haunting, with a sense of melancholy that is characteristic of Hungarian folk music. The movement builds to a climax before subsiding into a quiet ending. The second movement is marked "Allegretto" and is in a major key. It begins with a lively, dance-like rhythm that is typical of Hungarian folk music. The choir sings the melody in unison before breaking into four-part harmony. The movement is joyful and energetic, with a sense of celebration and exuberance. The final movement is marked "Andante" and is in a minor key. It begins with a solo alto voice singing a new melody that is based on the original folk song. The choir then joins in, singing the new melody in four-part harmony. The movement is slower and more contemplative than the previous two, with a sense of introspection and reflection. 'Evening Song' is a beautiful example of Kodály's use of folk music in his compositions. The piece is characterized by its simple melodies, rich harmonies, and use of Hungarian folk rhythms. The work is also notable for its use of solo voices, which add a sense of intimacy and personal expression to the choral texture. Overall, 'Evening Song' is a moving and evocative work that showcases Kodály's mastery of choral composition.

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