Composer

:

Benjamin Britten

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1968

Average_duration

:

19:14

Benjamin Britten's 'Children's Crusade, Op. 82' is a choral work that was composed in 1969. The piece was premiered on July 2, 1969, at the Aldeburgh Festival in Suffolk, England. The work is divided into five movements and is scored for a mixed choir, children's choir, and orchestra. The first movement, titled "The March," begins with a lively and rhythmic melody played by the orchestra. The children's choir enters with a simple and repetitive melody that is soon joined by the mixed choir. The movement builds in intensity, with the orchestra and choir reaching a climax before fading away. The second movement, "The Dream," is a slow and dreamy piece that features a solo soprano singing a haunting melody. The choir provides a gentle and ethereal background, creating a sense of otherworldliness. The third movement, "The Attack," is a dramatic and intense piece that features the full orchestra and choir. The music is fast-paced and frenzied, with the choir singing in a harsh and aggressive manner. The movement ends with a sudden and abrupt stop. The fourth movement, "The Capture," is a somber and mournful piece that features a solo baritone singing a melancholy melody. The choir provides a gentle and mournful background, creating a sense of sadness and loss. The final movement, "The March of the Children," is a triumphant and joyful piece that features the full orchestra and choir. The music is fast-paced and energetic, with the choir singing in a joyful and celebratory manner. The movement ends with a grand and triumphant finale. Overall, 'Children's Crusade, Op. 82' is a powerful and emotional work that explores the themes of war, loss, and hope. The piece is characterized by Britten's use of contrasting musical styles and his ability to create a sense of drama and intensity through his use of orchestration and choral writing.

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