Composer

:

Calvin Bowman

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

'Now Touch the Air Softly' is a choral work composed by Calvin Bowman in 2012. The piece was premiered on August 18, 2012, by the Melbourne Chamber Choir, conducted by David Kram. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, "Now Touch the Air Softly," is a setting of a poem by W.B. Yeats. The music is gentle and flowing, with a sense of longing and nostalgia. The choir sings in unison for much of the movement, creating a sense of unity and harmony. The piano accompaniment is sparse, with simple chords that support the vocal lines without overpowering them. The second movement, "The Lake Isle of Innisfree," is also based on a poem by Yeats. This movement is more upbeat and energetic than the first, with a lively piano accompaniment and a sense of joy and optimism in the vocal lines. The choir sings in harmony, with each part contributing to the overall texture of the piece. The final movement, "The Wild Swans at Coole," is based on another poem by Yeats. This movement is more introspective and contemplative than the previous two, with a slower tempo and more complex harmonies. The piano accompaniment is more prominent in this movement, with intricate arpeggios and melodic lines that complement the vocal parts. The choir sings in harmony, with each part weaving in and out of the texture to create a sense of depth and complexity. Overall, 'Now Touch the Air Softly' is a beautiful and evocative choral work that showcases Bowman's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its gentle melodies, intricate harmonies, and thoughtful use of text painting. The work is a testament to the enduring power of Yeats' poetry and the ability of music to capture the essence of a text and bring it to life.

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