Composer

:

Samuel Barber

Genre

:

Vocal

Compose Date

:

ca. 1926

Average_duration

:

01:27

"Music when Soft Voices Die" is a song composed by Samuel Barber in 1953. The song is based on a poem by Percy Bysshe Shelley, and it was premiered in 1954 by Leontyne Price, a renowned American soprano. The song is part of a larger collection of songs called "Hermit Songs," which Barber composed in 1953. The song is divided into three movements, each of which is characterized by a different mood and tempo. The first movement is marked "Andante con moto," and it is a slow and mournful piece that sets the tone for the rest of the song. The second movement is marked "Allegretto," and it is a more upbeat and lively piece that contrasts with the first movement. The third movement is marked "Adagio," and it is a slow and contemplative piece that brings the song to a close. The characteristics of "Music when Soft Voices Die" are typical of Barber's style, which is known for its lyricism and emotional depth. The song is characterized by its use of rich harmonies and expressive melodies, which are used to convey the emotional content of the poem. The song is also notable for its use of word painting, which is a technique that involves using musical elements to illustrate the meaning of the text. Overall, "Music when Soft Voices Die" is a beautiful and moving piece of music that showcases Barber's skill as a composer. The song is a testament to the power of music to convey complex emotions and to connect with audiences on a deep and meaningful level.

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