Composer

:

Arthur Sullivan

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Incidental Music

Compose Date

:

1861 - 1862

Average_duration

:

27:07

Movement_count

:

8

Movement ....

Arthur Sullivan's 'The Tempest, Op. 1' is a musical work that was composed in 1861. It premiered on May 1, 1862, at the Crystal Palace in London. The piece is divided into four movements, each of which is inspired by a different scene from William Shakespeare's play 'The Tempest.' The first movement, titled 'Introduction,' is a slow and somber piece that sets the tone for the rest of the work. It features a haunting melody played by the strings, which is then joined by the woodwinds and brass. The movement ends with a dramatic crescendo, signaling the beginning of the storm. The second movement, 'The Storm,' is a fast and frenzied piece that depicts the chaos of the storm that wrecks the ship carrying the play's characters. The music is full of sudden shifts in tempo and dynamics, reflecting the unpredictable nature of the storm. The movement ends with a triumphant fanfare, signaling the arrival of Prospero on the island. The third movement, 'Ariel,' is a delicate and ethereal piece that represents the spirit Ariel, who is summoned by Prospero to help him carry out his plans. The music is light and airy, with a prominent harp part that adds to the otherworldly atmosphere. The movement ends with a gentle fade-out, as Ariel disappears into the air. The final movement, 'Caliban,' is a dark and brooding piece that represents the character Caliban, who is enslaved by Prospero. The music is heavy and oppressive, with a prominent bass line that represents Caliban's physicality. The movement ends with a sudden and violent outburst, as Caliban rebels against his oppressors. Overall, 'The Tempest, Op. 1' is a masterful work that showcases Sullivan's skill as a composer. The piece is full of drama, emotion, and vivid imagery, making it a fitting tribute to Shakespeare's timeless play.

More....