Composer

:

Lennox Berkeley

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1983

Average_duration

:

2:46

Lennox Berkeley's 'In Wintertime, Op. 103' is a choral work that was composed in 1971. The piece was premiered on December 16, 1971, by the Choir of King's College, Cambridge, under the direction of Sir David Willcocks. The work is divided into four movements, each of which is characterized by its own unique musical style and mood. The first movement, 'In Wintertime', is a setting of a poem by Christina Rossetti. The music is slow and contemplative, with a haunting melody that is sung by the choir. The harmonies are rich and complex, with dissonances that create a sense of tension and unease. The overall effect is one of quiet introspection and reflection. The second movement, 'The Snow', is a setting of a poem by Walter de la Mare. The music is more lively and upbeat than the first movement, with a jaunty rhythm and a playful melody. The harmonies are bright and cheerful, with a sense of joy and wonder that captures the magic of a snowy day. The third movement, 'Winter Song', is a setting of a poem by Robert Graves. The music is slow and mournful, with a simple melody that is sung by the choir. The harmonies are spare and understated, with a sense of sadness and loss that captures the bleakness of winter. The final movement, 'Winter Magic', is a setting of a poem by John Clare. The music is fast and lively, with a driving rhythm and a joyful melody. The harmonies are bright and colorful, with a sense of excitement and wonder that captures the magic of winter. The overall effect is one of celebration and joy. Overall, 'In Wintertime, Op. 103' is a beautiful and evocative choral work that captures the many moods and emotions of winter. From quiet introspection to joyful celebration, the music is a testament to the power of music to capture the essence of the season.

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