Composer

:

Michael Tippett

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

1944

Average_duration

:

4:42

"The Weeping Babe" is a choral work composed by Michael Tippett in 1944. It was premiered on December 17, 1944, at the Wigmore Hall in London, conducted by the composer himself. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement, "The Weeping Babe," is a setting of a poem by Robert Southwell. It begins with a mournful, descending melody in the choir, which is then taken up by the solo soprano. The choir then joins in with a series of dissonant chords, creating a sense of tension and unease. The movement ends with a return to the opening melody, now sung by the choir in unison. The second movement, "The Virgin's Cradle Hymn," is a setting of a traditional English carol. It is a gentle lullaby, with a simple melody and a peaceful, pastoral character. The choir sings the melody in unison, with occasional harmonies and descants from the sopranos. The movement ends with a quiet, peaceful cadence. The third movement, "Epiphany," is a setting of a poem by Tippett himself. It is the most complex and dramatic of the three movements, with a wide range of textures and moods. The movement begins with a series of dissonant chords, followed by a solo tenor singing a declamatory melody. The choir then enters with a series of complex harmonies, creating a sense of mystery and awe. The movement builds to a climax with a series of powerful chords, before ending with a quiet, reflective coda. Overall, "The Weeping Babe" is a powerful and emotional work, reflecting Tippett's deep spiritual and artistic convictions. It combines elements of traditional English carols with modernist harmonies and textures, creating a unique and compelling musical language.

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