Composer

:

Jonathan Dove

Genre

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

9:13

"Who Killed Cock Robin?" is a chamber opera composed by Jonathan Dove in 2017. The opera premiered on July 28, 2017, at the Cheltenham Music Festival in the UK. The opera is based on the traditional nursery rhyme of the same name, which tells the story of the murder of a robin and the subsequent investigation to find the culprit. The opera is divided into three movements, each of which explores a different aspect of the story. The first movement, "The Murder," sets the scene for the opera and introduces the characters. The second movement, "The Investigation," follows the detectives as they try to solve the murder. The final movement, "The Trial," sees the trial of the accused and the revelation of the true culprit. The music of "Who Killed Cock Robin?" is characterized by its playful and whimsical nature, which reflects the nursery rhyme upon which it is based. The opera features a small ensemble of musicians, including a string quartet, clarinet, and percussion. The music is often rhythmic and lively, with a sense of energy and movement that propels the story forward. The opera also features a range of vocal styles, from spoken word to operatic singing. The characters are portrayed through their vocal styles, with the detectives speaking in a more conversational tone and the accused and witnesses singing in a more operatic style. Overall, "Who Killed Cock Robin?" is a charming and engaging opera that brings a beloved nursery rhyme to life in a new and exciting way. Its playful music and clever storytelling make it a delight for audiences of all ages.

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