Composer

:

Russian Traditional

Genre

:

Vocal

Average_duration

:

3:24

"Shall I Come Forth to the River" is a traditional Russian folk song that has been passed down through generations. The exact date of its composition is unknown, but it is believed to have originated in the 19th century. The song has been performed by various artists and choirs, and it remains a popular piece in Russian music. The song is typically performed in four movements, with each movement building upon the previous one. The first movement begins with a solo voice singing the opening lines, "Shall I come forth to the river, / Shall I go down to the sea?" The melody is simple and haunting, with a slow and steady rhythm that sets the tone for the rest of the song. The second movement introduces a chorus of voices, who join in with the soloist to sing the refrain, "Oh, my love, my dear one, / Come to me, come to me." The harmonies are rich and full, and the voices blend together beautifully to create a sense of longing and desire. The third movement features a solo voice again, this time singing a new verse that describes the beauty of the natural world. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the river and the sea, with imagery that is both romantic and melancholy. The melody is more complex than in the previous movements, with intricate runs and trills that showcase the singer's vocal range. The final movement brings all the voices together once more, with the chorus repeating the refrain as the soloist sings the final verse. The melody is triumphant and uplifting, with a sense of resolution and closure that brings the song to a satisfying conclusion. Overall, "Shall I Come Forth to the River" is a beautiful and poignant piece of music that captures the essence of Russian folk traditions. Its simple yet powerful melody and rich harmonies make it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.

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