Composer

:

Frederick Delius

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1904

Average_duration

:

24:19

Frederick Delius composed 'Sea Drift, RT ii/3' in 1903-1904, and it premiered on October 23, 1906, in Leeds, England. The piece is a setting of a poem by Walt Whitman, and it is scored for baritone soloist, mixed choir, and orchestra. The work is divided into four movements, each of which reflects a different aspect of the sea. The first movement, "The Song of the Wanderer," is a slow and contemplative piece that sets the tone for the rest of the work. The second movement, "The Waves," is a lively and energetic piece that captures the movement and power of the sea. The third movement, "The Explorers," is a more introspective piece that reflects on the human desire to explore and discover new things. The final movement, "The Return," is a triumphant and joyful piece that celebrates the return of the wanderer to his home. One of the most striking characteristics of 'Sea Drift' is its use of impressionistic harmonies and orchestration. Delius was heavily influenced by the French impressionist composers of his time, and this is evident in the way he uses color and texture to evoke the mood and atmosphere of the sea. The piece also features a prominent role for the baritone soloist, who sings the role of the wanderer and serves as a kind of narrator for the piece. Overall, 'Sea Drift' is a powerful and evocative work that captures the beauty and majesty of the sea. It is a testament to Delius's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both deeply emotional and intellectually engaging.

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