Composer

:

Darius Milhaud

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1937

Publication Date

:

1942

Average_duration

:

8:56

Cantate de la Paix, Op. 166 is a choral work composed by Darius Milhaud in 1955. The piece was commissioned by the United Nations to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the signing of the UN Charter. It was premiered on June 26, 1955, at the United Nations General Assembly in New York City. The Cantate de la Paix is divided into three movements. The first movement, "Paix sur la terre" (Peace on Earth), is a lively and rhythmic piece that sets the tone for the entire work. The second movement, "La Guerre" (War), is a stark contrast to the first movement. It is a slow and mournful piece that depicts the horrors of war. The final movement, "Paix sur la terre" (Peace on Earth), is a reprise of the first movement, but with a more subdued and peaceful tone. The Cantate de la Paix is characterized by Milhaud's use of polytonality and complex rhythms. The piece features a large orchestra, a mixed choir, and a children's choir. The children's choir is used to represent the innocence and hope of the future, while the mixed choir represents the present. The text of the Cantate de la Paix was written by Paul Claudel, a French poet and diplomat. The text is a call for peace and unity among all nations. It emphasizes the importance of working together to create a better world for future generations. Overall, the Cantate de la Paix is a powerful and moving work that celebrates the ideals of the United Nations. It is a testament to Milhaud's skill as a composer and his commitment to promoting peace and understanding through music.

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