Composer

:

Charles Ives

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata

Compose Date

:

1898 - 1899

Publication Date

:

1973

First Performance

:

Apr 18, 1902

Average_duration

:

37:11

Movement_count

:

7

Movement ....

The Celestial Country, S. 143 is a choral work composed by Charles Ives in 1902. It was premiered in 1906 by the choir of the First Presbyterian Church in Bloomfield, New Jersey. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, titled "The Celestial Country," is a setting of a hymn by 18th-century English poet John Mason. The music is characterized by a slow, stately tempo and rich harmonies. The choir sings the hymn text in unison, with occasional harmonies and descants. The movement builds to a climax with a powerful chord progression, before resolving into a peaceful coda. The second movement, titled "The City of God," is a setting of a text by 19th-century American poet William Cullen Bryant. The music is more lively and rhythmic than the first movement, with a faster tempo and syncopated rhythms. The choir sings the text in harmony, with occasional solo passages. The movement features a number of dynamic contrasts, with loud, exultant passages alternating with quieter, more contemplative sections. The third movement, titled "The Unclouded Day," is a setting of a hymn by American composer Josiah Kelley Alwood. The music is characterized by a bright, joyful tone, with a fast tempo and lively rhythms. The choir sings the hymn text in harmony, with occasional solos and descants. The movement features a number of dynamic contrasts, with loud, exultant passages alternating with quieter, more reflective sections. Overall, The Celestial Country, S. 143 is a powerful and uplifting choral work that showcases Ives' skill as a composer. The piece is notable for its rich harmonies, dynamic contrasts, and use of traditional hymn texts. It remains a popular choice for choirs and choral festivals today.

More....