Composer

:

Percy Grainger

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Hymn

Compose Date

:

1905 - 1938

Publication Date

:

1940

Average_duration

:

2:48

Harvest Hymn is a composition for piano, four hands with voice, composed by Percy Grainger in 1905. The piece was premiered in London on December 12, 1905, with Grainger himself at the piano and the English contralto singer, Muriel Foster, as the vocalist. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement, marked "With dignity and breadth," is a slow and stately hymn, with the piano providing a rich harmonic accompaniment to the vocal line. The second movement, marked "With motion and swing," is a lively dance, with the piano taking on a more prominent role and the vocal line becoming more rhythmic and syncopated. The final movement, marked "With fervor and exaltation," is a triumphant hymn, with the piano and voice soaring to a grand climax. One of the most striking characteristics of Harvest Hymn is its use of folk melodies. Grainger was known for his interest in folk music, and he incorporated many traditional tunes into his compositions. In Harvest Hymn, he uses a number of English folk melodies, including "The Lincolnshire Poacher" and "Country Gardens," which he weaves together in a complex and intricate tapestry of sound. Another notable feature of the piece is its use of unconventional harmonies and rhythms. Grainger was known for his experimental approach to music, and he often pushed the boundaries of traditional tonality and meter. In Harvest Hymn, he employs a number of unusual chord progressions and syncopated rhythms, creating a sense of tension and excitement that is both thrilling and unpredictable. Overall, Harvest Hymn is a powerful and evocative work, showcasing Grainger's unique blend of folk music, experimental harmonies, and rhythmic complexity. Its premiere in 1905 was met with great acclaim, and it remains a beloved piece in the repertoire of piano, four hands with voice.

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