Composer

:

Mily Balakirev

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1863

Publication Date

:

1865

Average_duration

:

1:15

"When I Hear Thy Voice" is a choral work composed by Mily Balakirev in 1866. The piece was premiered in St. Petersburg in the same year. It is a setting of a poem by Mikhail Lermontov, a famous Russian poet of the Romantic era. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked "Andante," and begins with a gentle, flowing melody in the choir. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the choir singing in unison before breaking into a rich, harmonious texture. The movement ends with a return to the gentle opening melody. The second movement is marked "Allegro moderato," and is more lively and energetic than the first. The choir sings in a fast, rhythmic style, with the melody passing between the different sections of the choir. The movement features a number of dynamic changes, with the music alternating between loud and soft passages. The final movement is marked "Andante maestoso," and is the most dramatic of the three. The choir sings in a powerful, majestic style, with the melody soaring above the rich harmonies of the accompaniment. The movement builds to a climax before ending with a quiet, reflective coda. Overall, "When I Hear Thy Voice" is a beautiful and expressive choral work that showcases Balakirev's skill as a composer. The piece is notable for its rich harmonies, dynamic contrasts, and emotional depth. It remains a popular choice for choirs and audiences alike, and is considered one of Balakirev's most accomplished works.

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