John W. Work III
Scuppernong
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Composer:John W. Work IIIGenre:KeyboardStyle:KeyboardCompose Date:1951Average_duration:7:08Movement_count:3Movement ...."Scuppernong" is a choral work composed by John W. Work III, an African American composer, arranger, and musicologist. The piece was composed in 1940 and premiered in the same year. It is a four-movement work that showcases the composer's skill in blending traditional African American musical elements with Western classical music. The first movement, "Scuppernong," is a lively and rhythmic piece that features call-and-response singing, a common element in African American music. The lyrics describe the joy of picking and eating scuppernong grapes, a type of grape that is native to the southeastern United States. The second movement, "The Old Ship of Zion," is a slower and more contemplative piece that draws on the spiritual tradition of African American music. The lyrics describe the journey of the soul to the afterlife and the hope of reaching the "old ship of Zion," a metaphor for salvation. The third movement, "I'm Gonna Sing," is an upbeat and energetic piece that features a soloist and choir. The lyrics express the joy of singing and the power of music to uplift the spirit. The final movement, "Ain't Got Time to Die," is a fast-paced and rhythmic piece that draws on the gospel tradition of African American music. The lyrics describe the urgency of living life to the fullest and the hope of eternal life. Overall, "Scuppernong" is a vibrant and dynamic work that showcases the rich musical heritage of African Americans. The piece blends traditional African American musical elements with Western classical music to create a unique and powerful sound.More....
