Composer

:

Jonathan Dove

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Chorus

Compose Date

:

1990

'Wellcome, all wonders in one sight!' is a choral work composed by Jonathan Dove in 2018. It was commissioned by the London Symphony Chorus to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the Royal College of Physicians. The piece premiered on October 11, 2018, at the College's headquarters in London. The work is divided into three movements, each of which explores a different aspect of the College's history and mission. The first movement, "The Art of Healing," is a setting of a text by the College's founder, Thomas Linacre. It celebrates the role of art and beauty in the healing process, and features lush harmonies and soaring melodies. The second movement, "The Science of Medicine," is a setting of a text by the physician and philosopher Sir Francis Bacon. It explores the role of science and reason in medicine, and features intricate counterpoint and rhythmic complexity. The final movement, "The Practice of Medicine," is a setting of a text by the physician and poet John Keats. It celebrates the humanistic aspects of medicine, and features a soaring soprano solo and a lush choral climax. Throughout the work, Dove employs a variety of choral textures and techniques, from dense polyphony to simple homophony. He also incorporates elements of Renaissance and Baroque music, reflecting the College's long history and tradition. Overall, 'Wellcome, all wonders in one sight!' is a powerful and moving tribute to the Royal College of Physicians and the vital role it has played in the history of medicine. It showcases Dove's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging.

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