Composer

:

William Mathias

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1983

Average_duration

:

6:53

'Angelus, Op. 90/5' is a choral work composed by William Mathias, a Welsh composer, in 1981. The piece was premiered on 17th October 1981 at St. David's Hall in Cardiff, Wales, by the BBC Welsh Symphony Orchestra and the BBC Welsh Chorus, conducted by Owain Arwel Hughes. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, marked "Moderato," begins with a soft and gentle choral introduction, which is then joined by the orchestra. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the choir and orchestra trading off melodic lines. The movement ends with a return to the soft and gentle opening material. The second movement, marked "Allegro," is much more lively and energetic than the first. The choir and orchestra engage in a lively call-and-response, with the choir singing short phrases that are then echoed by the orchestra. The movement is characterized by its rhythmic drive and syncopated rhythms. The final movement, marked "Andante," is the most contemplative of the three. The choir sings a simple, hymn-like melody, which is then taken up by the orchestra. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the choir and orchestra trading off melodic lines once again. The movement ends with a return to the simple, hymn-like melody. Overall, 'Angelus, Op. 90/5' is a beautiful and contemplative work that showcases Mathias's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its lush harmonies, intricate counterpoint, and rhythmic drive. It is a testament to Mathias's ability to create music that is both technically complex and emotionally powerful.

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