Composer

:

Arthur Sullivan

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Orchestral

Compose Date

:

1867

Average_duration

:

8:05

Marmion is a cantata composed by Arthur Sullivan in 1876. It premiered on June 15, 1877, at the Leeds Festival. The cantata is based on Sir Walter Scott's epic poem of the same name. The work is divided into six movements, each of which depicts a different scene from the poem. The first movement, "Introduction and Chorus," sets the scene for the cantata. It begins with a slow, mournful introduction, which is followed by a lively chorus that introduces the main characters of the poem. The second movement, "The Battle," is a dramatic depiction of the Battle of Flodden Field. The music is fast-paced and intense, with driving rhythms and soaring melodies. The third movement, "The Bridal," is a tender and romantic duet between the two main characters, Marmion and Constance. The music is gentle and lyrical, with a beautiful melody that is passed back and forth between the two singers. The fourth movement, "The Convent," is a hauntingly beautiful aria sung by Constance. The music is slow and mournful, with a sense of longing and sadness. The fifth movement, "The Abbot's Warning," is a dramatic recitative and aria sung by the Abbot. The music is dark and foreboding, with a sense of impending doom. The final movement, "The Battle's Over," is a triumphant chorus that celebrates the victory of the English over the Scots. The music is fast-paced and joyful, with a sense of relief and triumph. Overall, Marmion is a powerful and emotional work that showcases Sullivan's skill as a composer. The music is rich and varied, with a range of styles and moods that reflect the different scenes from the poem. The cantata is a testament to Sullivan's ability to create music that is both beautiful and dramatic, and it remains a popular work in the choral repertoire to this day.

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