Composer

:

Arthur Bliss

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1960

Publication Date

:

1960

First Performance

:

Feb 20, 1960

Average_duration

:

3:29

Arthur Bliss composed 'Birthday Song for a Royal Child, Op. 87, F. 38' in 1950 to celebrate the birth of Princess Anne, the second child of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. The piece was premiered on August 15, 1950, at the Royal Albert Hall in London, during the Proms concert series. The piece is a choral work for mixed voices and orchestra, with a duration of approximately six minutes. It is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement, marked "Allegro con brio," is a lively and celebratory fanfare that introduces the main theme of the piece. The music is characterized by bold brass and percussion, with the choir singing a simple and joyful melody. The second movement, marked "Andante con moto," is a more reflective and introspective section. The music is slower and more lyrical, with the choir singing a beautiful and tender melody. The orchestra provides a delicate accompaniment, with strings and woodwinds creating a gentle and peaceful atmosphere. The final movement, marked "Allegro vivace," returns to the celebratory mood of the first movement. The music is fast and energetic, with the choir and orchestra combining to create a joyful and triumphant sound. The piece ends with a grand and majestic flourish, bringing the work to a thrilling conclusion. Overall, 'Birthday Song for a Royal Child' is a charming and delightful piece of music, perfectly suited to its occasion. Bliss's skillful use of orchestration and choral writing creates a work that is both uplifting and moving, capturing the spirit of celebration and joy that accompanies the birth of a new royal child.

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