Composer

:

Ralph Vaughan Williams

Genre

:

Vocal

Compose Date

:

1891

Average_duration

:

2:40

Ralph Vaughan Williams composed "Summum bonum (unpublished)" in 1938. The piece was never published during his lifetime and was only discovered in the composer's papers after his death. It is a choral work for mixed voices and orchestra, with a duration of approximately 15 minutes. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement, marked "Allegro con brio," is a lively and energetic setting of a text by the English poet Robert Bridges. The music is characterized by driving rhythms and bold, declamatory choral writing, with the orchestra providing a colorful and dynamic accompaniment. The second movement, marked "Lento," is a more introspective and contemplative setting of a text by the English mystic Richard Rolle. The music is characterized by lush harmonies and soaring melodies, with the choir and orchestra blending together to create a rich and expressive sound. The final movement, marked "Allegro vivace," is a joyful and exuberant setting of a text by the English poet William Blake. The music is characterized by lively rhythms and playful choral writing, with the orchestra providing a lively and colorful accompaniment. Overall, "Summum bonum (unpublished)" is a powerful and expressive work that showcases Vaughan Williams' skill as a composer of choral music. The piece is notable for its rich harmonies, colorful orchestration, and expressive use of text, and is a testament to the enduring legacy of one of England's greatest composers.

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