Composer

:

Lee Hoiby

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

Nov 1985

Average_duration

:

3:16

"Lady of the Harbor" is a song cycle composed by Lee Hoiby in 1982. The premiere of the work was given by soprano Benita Valente and pianist Rudolf Firkusny at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. on October 28, 1982. The song cycle consists of six movements, each of which sets a poem by Emma Lazarus, the author of the famous sonnet inscribed on the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty. The poems explore themes of immigration, freedom, and the American dream. The first movement, "The New Colossus," sets the famous sonnet that begins "Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame." The music is grand and majestic, with soaring vocal lines and a triumphant piano accompaniment. The second movement, "The Banner of the Jew," is a tribute to the Jewish immigrants who came to America seeking freedom from persecution. The music is haunting and introspective, with a mournful vocal line and a sparse, delicate piano accompaniment. The third movement, "The New Ezekiel," is a meditation on the American dream. The music is optimistic and energetic, with a lively vocal line and a driving piano accompaniment. The fourth movement, "The South," is a tribute to the African American experience in America. The music is soulful and bluesy, with a rich vocal line and a rhythmic piano accompaniment. The fifth movement, "The New Colossus (Reprise)," returns to the famous sonnet from the first movement, but with a more subdued and introspective musical setting. The final movement, "The Crowing of the Red Cock," is a call to action, urging Americans to stand up for their values and fight for justice. The music is urgent and passionate, with a powerful vocal line and a driving piano accompaniment. Overall, "Lady of the Harbor" is a powerful and moving work that celebrates the ideals of freedom and democracy that have made America a beacon of hope for people around the world.

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