Composer

:

Jean Sibelius

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

ca. 1899

Average_duration

:

2:45

"But my Bird is Long in Homing, Op. 36/2" is a composition by the Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. It was composed in 1900 and premiered on December 8, 1900, in Helsinki, Finland. The piece is part of a set of six songs for voice and piano, collectively known as "Six Songs, Op. 36." The song is in the key of E-flat major and is written for a solo voice and piano accompaniment. It is a slow and melancholic piece, with a haunting melody that is typical of Sibelius' style. The lyrics, written by the Finnish poet L. Onerva, tell the story of a bird that has flown away and the longing of the speaker for its return. The piece is divided into three distinct sections or movements. The first section is marked "Andante con moto" and is characterized by a flowing, lyrical melody in the piano accompaniment. The vocal line is relatively simple, with long, sustained notes that convey a sense of longing and sadness. The second section is marked "Poco meno" and is more agitated than the first. The piano accompaniment becomes more complex, with rapid arpeggios and a sense of urgency. The vocal line becomes more declamatory, with shorter, more staccato phrases that convey a sense of frustration and impatience. The final section is marked "Tempo I" and returns to the slower, more contemplative mood of the opening. The piano accompaniment is simpler, with a repeated chord progression that provides a sense of stability and resolution. The vocal line becomes more melodic, with a soaring melody that suggests a sense of hope and longing. Overall, "But my Bird is Long in Homing, Op. 36/2" is a beautiful and poignant piece that showcases Sibelius' skill as a composer of art songs. Its haunting melody and evocative lyrics make it a favorite among singers and audiences alike.

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