Composer

:

Samuel Barber

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1972

Average_duration

:

7:52

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

'Songs (3), Op. 45' is a song cycle composed by Samuel Barber, an American composer, in 1947. The cycle consists of three songs, each with its own distinct character and mood. The premiere of the cycle was given by soprano Eleanor Steber and pianist Dimitri Mitropoulos on January 22, 1948, at the Town Hall in New York City. The first song in the cycle is titled "Now have I fed and eaten up the rose." It is a setting of a poem by James Joyce and is characterized by its lyrical and flowing melody. The song begins with a gentle piano introduction, which sets the mood for the entire piece. The vocal line is expressive and emotive, with the singer conveying the sense of longing and desire expressed in the poem. The second song in the cycle is titled "A Green Lowland of Pianos." It is a setting of a poem by Tennessee Williams and is characterized by its rhythmic and syncopated piano accompaniment. The vocal line is more declamatory than the first song, with the singer delivering the text in a more spoken style. The song has a sense of urgency and restlessness, reflecting the sense of unease expressed in the poem. The final song in the cycle is titled "O boundless, boundless evening." It is a setting of a poem by W.H. Auden and is characterized by its haunting and ethereal quality. The piano accompaniment is sparse and atmospheric, creating a sense of mystery and otherworldliness. The vocal line is expressive and emotive, with the singer conveying the sense of wonder and awe expressed in the poem. Overall, 'Songs (3), Op. 45' is a beautiful and evocative song cycle that showcases Barber's skill as a composer. The cycle is characterized by its lyrical melodies, rhythmic piano accompaniments, and expressive vocal lines. It is a testament to Barber's ability to capture the essence of a poem and translate it into music.

More....