Composer

:

Arnold Bax

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1926

Average_duration

:

17:01

Arnold Bax's 'Walsinghame' is a choral work composed in 1929. It was premiered on 17th October 1929 at the Royal Albert Hall in London, conducted by Sir Henry Wood. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, 'The Queen's Song', is a setting of a poem by Sir Walter Raleigh. It begins with a gentle, flowing melody in the choir, accompanied by a soft, undulating piano. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the choir singing in rich, full harmonies. The movement ends with a return to the gentle opening theme. The second movement, 'The Pilgrimage', is a setting of a poem by John Masefield. It begins with a solemn, march-like melody in the choir, accompanied by a steady, rhythmic piano. The music gradually becomes more complex, with the choir singing in intricate harmonies and the piano playing a more elaborate accompaniment. The movement ends with a return to the solemn opening theme. The third movement, 'The Queen's Farewell', is a setting of a poem by an unknown author. It begins with a mournful, melancholy melody in the choir, accompanied by a simple, plaintive piano. The music gradually becomes more intense, with the choir singing in powerful, emotional harmonies. The movement ends with a return to the mournful opening theme. Overall, 'Walsinghame' is a powerful and emotional work, showcasing Bax's skill as a composer of choral music. The piece is notable for its rich harmonies, complex rhythms, and evocative melodies, which combine to create a deeply moving and memorable musical experience.

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