Composer

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Jeffrey Shumway

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Keyboard

Average_duration

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3:02

"Simple Gifts / Going Home (after Copland & Dvorak)" is a contemporary classical composition by Jeffrey Shumway. The piece was composed in 2015 and premiered on October 23, 2015, at the Harris Fine Arts Center in Provo, Utah. The composition is divided into two movements, each based on a well-known American melody. The first movement, "Simple Gifts," is based on a Shaker hymn of the same name. The melody is presented in a simple, unadorned manner, with the piano providing a gentle accompaniment. As the movement progresses, the melody is developed and expanded upon, with the piano taking on a more prominent role. The movement ends with a return to the simple, unadorned presentation of the melody. The second movement, "Going Home," is based on the famous melody from Dvorak's "New World Symphony." The movement begins with a mournful presentation of the melody, with the piano providing a somber accompaniment. As the movement progresses, the melody is developed and transformed, with the piano taking on a more active role. The movement ends with a return to the mournful presentation of the melody, bringing the piece to a somber close. Overall, "Simple Gifts / Going Home (after Copland & Dvorak)" is a beautiful and contemplative piece that pays homage to two of America's most beloved melodies. The composition showcases Shumway's skill as a composer, with his ability to take familiar melodies and transform them into something new and unique. The piece is a testament to the enduring power of these melodies and their ability to inspire new works of art.

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