Composer

:

Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1875

Average_duration

:

4:50

"The Corals, Op. 28/2" is a choral composition by Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky, composed in 1883. It was premiered on October 28, 1883, in Moscow, Russia, by the Russian Musical Society. The piece is part of Tchaikovsky's larger work, "The Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom," which is a setting of the Orthodox liturgy. "The Corals" is the second movement of "The Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom" and is a setting of the Cherubic Hymn. The piece is scored for four-part choir, with the addition of a solo soprano and tenor. The text of the hymn is sung in Church Slavonic, the liturgical language of the Russian Orthodox Church. The piece begins with a slow and solemn introduction, with the choir singing a series of chords that gradually build in intensity. The solo soprano and tenor then enter, singing a duet that is both lyrical and expressive. The choir then joins in, singing the main theme of the hymn in unison. The piece then alternates between sections sung by the choir and sections sung by the soloists, with the choir providing a rich harmonic backdrop for the soloists' soaring melodies. One of the most striking characteristics of "The Corals" is its use of harmony. Tchaikovsky employs rich, complex harmonies that are both lush and expressive. The piece also features a number of dynamic contrasts, with the choir and soloists alternating between soft, intimate passages and powerful, full-throated sections. Overall, "The Corals, Op. 28/2" is a beautiful and moving choral composition that showcases Tchaikovsky's skill as a composer. Its rich harmonies and expressive melodies make it a favorite among choral groups and audiences alike.

More....