Composer

:

Charles Tomlinson Griffes

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Character Piece

Compose Date

:

Nov 1915

Publication Date

:

1978

First Performance

:

May 4, 1964

Average_duration

:

5:44

Charles Tomlinson Griffes was an American composer who lived from 1884 to 1920. He was known for his innovative and modernist approach to music, which was influenced by his interest in Eastern cultures and his studies with the French composer Charles Loeffler. One of his most famous works is the "De Profundis in G minor, A. 78," which was composed in 1915. The "De Profundis in G minor, A. 78" is a choral work that is based on the Latin text of Psalm 130, which begins with the words "De profundis clamavi ad te, Domine" ("Out of the depths I have cried to you, O Lord"). The work is scored for mixed chorus, solo soprano, and orchestra, and it is divided into three movements. The first movement is marked "Lento misterioso" and begins with a haunting melody in the strings. The chorus enters with a quiet, mournful chant that gradually builds in intensity. The soprano soloist then enters with a soaring melody that is accompanied by the orchestra. The movement ends with a return to the quiet, mournful chant of the opening. The second movement is marked "Allegro con fuoco" and is a dramatic contrast to the first. It begins with a frenzied orchestral introduction that leads into a lively choral section. The soprano soloist then enters with a virtuosic aria that is accompanied by the orchestra. The movement ends with a return to the frenzied orchestral music of the opening. The third movement is marked "Lento misterioso" and is a return to the mood of the first. It begins with a quiet, mournful melody in the strings that is joined by the chorus. The soprano soloist then enters with a gentle, lyrical melody that is accompanied by the orchestra. The movement ends with a return to the quiet, mournful music of the opening. The "De Profundis in G minor, A. 78" is a powerful and emotional work that showcases Griffes' innovative approach to music. The use of Eastern scales and harmonies, as well as the dramatic contrasts between the movements, make this work a unique and memorable addition to the choral repertoire. The work premiered in 1916 in New York City, and it has since become a staple of choral performances around the world.

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