Composer

:

Samuel Barber

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1938

Average_duration

:

1:18

Samuel Barber's "The Secrets of the Old, Op. 13/2" is a song cycle composed in 1935. The premiere of the work was given by soprano Eleanor Steber and pianist Samuel Barber on January 10, 1936, at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. The song cycle consists of four movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement, "Sleep Now," is a lullaby that features a gentle, rocking rhythm and a soothing melody. The second movement, "I Hear an Army," is a more intense and dramatic piece that builds to a powerful climax. The third movement, "The Secrets of the Old," is a haunting and mysterious piece that features a haunting melody and a sense of foreboding. The final movement, "Sure on this Shining Night," is a beautiful and uplifting piece that celebrates the beauty of the natural world. One of the most striking characteristics of "The Secrets of the Old" is Barber's use of text painting. Throughout the song cycle, he uses the music to reflect the meaning of the words, creating a powerful emotional impact. For example, in "I Hear an Army," the music builds in intensity as the narrator describes the sound of an army marching. In "The Secrets of the Old," the music creates a sense of mystery and unease as the narrator describes the secrets of the old. Overall, "The Secrets of the Old" is a beautiful and powerful work that showcases Barber's skill as a composer. Its haunting melodies, dramatic climaxes, and powerful emotional impact make it a masterpiece of the art song genre.

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