Composer

:

Ralph Vaughan Williams

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1954 - 1958

Average_duration

:

10:48

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Last Songs (4) is a song cycle composed by Ralph Vaughan Williams in 1954. The premiere of the work was given on 17th October 1954 at the Royal Festival Hall in London, with the tenor Peter Pears and the composer himself at the piano. The cycle consists of four songs, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first song, "Procris," is a setting of a poem by John Masefield. It is a mournful and melancholic piece, with a slow and somber melody that reflects the sadness of the text. The second song, "Tired," is a setting of a poem by Fiona MacLeod. It is a more upbeat and lively piece, with a faster tempo and a more energetic melody. The third song, "The Droll Weaver," is a setting of a traditional Scottish ballad. It is a playful and humorous piece, with a lively and rhythmic melody that reflects the lightheartedness of the text. The final song, "The Last Invocation," is a setting of a poem by Walt Whitman. It is a powerful and emotional piece, with a slow and solemn melody that builds to a dramatic climax. Overall, Last Songs (4) is a beautiful and moving work that showcases Vaughan Williams' skill as a composer and his ability to capture the essence of each text in his music. The cycle is a testament to the enduring power of the art song, and it remains a beloved and frequently performed work in the classical repertoire.

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