Composer

:

Michael Tippett

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata

Compose Date

:

1958

Average_duration

:

23:35

Movement_count

:

9

Movement ....

"Crown of the Year" is a choral work composed by Michael Tippett in 1958. It was premiered on December 4, 1958, at the Royal Festival Hall in London, conducted by the composer himself. The work is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a different text. The first movement, "The Birth of Christ," is based on the Gospel of Luke and depicts the nativity scene. The music is joyful and celebratory, with bright brass fanfares and lively rhythms. The choir sings in unison and harmony, with occasional solo passages for the soprano and tenor voices. The second movement, "The Adoration of the Magi," is based on a poem by T.S. Eliot and portrays the journey of the wise men to Bethlehem. The music is more contemplative and introspective, with a slower tempo and more complex harmonies. The choir sings in four-part harmony, with the tenor and bass voices taking on a more prominent role. The third movement, "The March of the Three Kings," is based on a traditional carol and depicts the journey of the wise men back to their own countries. The music is lively and energetic, with a fast tempo and syncopated rhythms. The choir sings in unison and harmony, with occasional solo passages for the alto and bass voices. Overall, "Crown of the Year" is a festive and uplifting work that celebrates the Christmas season. Tippett's use of traditional texts and music, combined with his own modernist style, creates a unique and memorable choral experience.

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