Composer

:

Samuel Barber

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1968 - 1969

Average_duration

:

2:43

"Solitary Hotel, Op. 41/4" is a song composed by Samuel Barber, an American composer, in 1940. The song is part of a song cycle titled "Despite and Still," which consists of four songs for voice and piano. The premiere of the song cycle was on January 6, 1941, at the Town Hall in New York City, with the composer accompanying the baritone singer, Rouben Mamoulian. "Solitary Hotel" is the fourth and final song of the cycle, and it is based on a poem by James Joyce, an Irish writer. The song is in the key of E-flat major and has a moderate tempo. The song has a duration of approximately three minutes. The song has a melancholic and introspective character, which is typical of Barber's style. The piano accompaniment is sparse and delicate, creating a sense of solitude and isolation. The vocal line is lyrical and expressive, with long phrases and subtle dynamic changes. The song has two main sections, each with a different mood and character. The first section is in a minor key and has a somber and introspective character. The vocal line is mostly in a low register, creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The piano accompaniment is sparse and delicate, with occasional dissonances that add tension and drama. The second section is in a major key and has a more hopeful and optimistic character. The vocal line is more expansive and expressive, with a higher range and more dynamic changes. The piano accompaniment is more active and rhythmic, creating a sense of movement and energy. Overall, "Solitary Hotel" is a poignant and introspective song that reflects on the themes of loneliness, isolation, and longing. The song showcases Barber's mastery of vocal and piano writing, as well as his ability to convey complex emotions through music.

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