Composer

:

Havergal Brian

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

2:53

"Why Dost Thou Wound and Break My Heart?" is a choral work composed by Havergal Brian in 1922. The piece was premiered on May 17, 1923, at the Royal College of Music in London. The composition is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, marked "Moderato," begins with a somber and mournful melody in the lower voices. The choir sings the text "Why dost thou wound and break my heart?" in a plaintive and sorrowful manner. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the addition of higher voices and more complex harmonies. The movement ends with a powerful climax, as the choir sings the final line of the text with great emotion. The second movement, marked "Allegro," is more upbeat and lively than the first. The choir sings the text "My heart is like a singing bird" in a joyful and exuberant manner. The music is characterized by fast-paced rhythms and intricate harmonies, with the choir often singing in unison or in tight harmonies. The movement ends with a triumphant flourish, as the choir sings the final line of the text with great energy and enthusiasm. The third and final movement, marked "Lento," returns to the somber and mournful mood of the first. The choir sings the text "O love, that wilt not let me go" in a gentle and tender manner. The music is characterized by slow, flowing melodies and simple harmonies, with the choir often singing in unison or in soft, delicate harmonies. The movement ends with a peaceful and serene coda, as the choir sings the final line of the text in a hushed and reverent manner. Overall, "Why Dost Thou Wound and Break My Heart?" is a powerful and emotional choral work that showcases Havergal Brian's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by complex harmonies, intricate rhythms, and a wide range of dynamics, from soft and delicate to loud and powerful. The text, taken from various poems and hymns, is deeply spiritual and reflective, and the music reflects the emotional depth and complexity of the words.

More....