Composer

:

Howard Hanson

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1938

Average_duration

:

16:16

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Merry Mount, suite from the opera, Op. 31 is an American opera composed by Howard Hanson in 1933. The opera is based on Nathaniel Hawthorne's short story "The Maypole of Merry Mount" and tells the story of the Puritan settlers in Massachusetts in the 17th century. The plot revolves around the conflict between the Puritans and the followers of the Maypole, who celebrate life and love. The opera premiered on February 10, 1934, at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City. The suite from the opera was later arranged by Hanson and premiered on November 22, 1934, by the Boston Symphony Orchestra. The suite consists of four movements: "Overture," "Children's Dance," "Love Duet," and "Finale." The "Overture" sets the tone for the opera with its grand and majestic theme. The "Children's Dance" is a lively and playful movement that captures the joy and innocence of the Maypole followers. The "Love Duet" is a tender and romantic movement that features a duet between the two main characters, Sir Gower Lackland and Lady Marigold Sandys. The "Finale" is a triumphant and celebratory movement that brings the opera to a close. The music of Merry Mount is characterized by its lush orchestration, sweeping melodies, and dramatic contrasts. Hanson's use of brass and percussion adds to the grandeur of the music, while his use of strings and woodwinds creates a sense of intimacy and tenderness. Overall, Merry Mount, suite from the opera, Op. 31 is a masterpiece of American opera that captures the spirit of the Puritan settlers and their struggle to reconcile their strict religious beliefs with their desire for love and joy.

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