Composer

:

Marilyn Shrude

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Compose Date

:

1988

Average_duration

:

11:17

Renewing the Myth is a contemporary classical composition by Marilyn Shrude, an American composer and professor of music at Bowling Green State University. The piece was composed in 2003 and premiered on March 28, 2004, by the Bowling Green Philharmonia, conducted by Emily Freeman Brown. Renewing the Myth is a three-movement work that explores the theme of renewal and transformation. The first movement, titled "The Phoenix," is a musical representation of the mythical bird that rises from its own ashes. The music begins with a slow, mournful melody that gradually builds in intensity and complexity, culminating in a fiery climax that represents the rebirth of the phoenix. The second movement, "The Labyrinth," is a musical depiction of the ancient Greek myth of Theseus and the Minotaur. The music is dark and mysterious, with dissonant harmonies and complex rhythms that create a sense of confusion and disorientation. As the music progresses, the labyrinth becomes more and more complex, until Theseus finally defeats the Minotaur and finds his way out. The final movement, "The Tree of Life," is a celebration of renewal and growth. The music is bright and joyful, with soaring melodies and lush harmonies that evoke the beauty and vitality of nature. The movement culminates in a triumphant finale that represents the renewal of life and the triumph of the human spirit. Overall, Renewing the Myth is a powerful and evocative work that showcases Marilyn Shrude's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its complex harmonies, intricate rhythms, and vivid musical imagery, which combine to create a rich and immersive listening experience.

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