Composer

:

Michael Tippett

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

1943 - 1944

Average_duration

:

3:13

"Plebs Angelica" is a choral work composed by Michael Tippett in 1961. It was premiered on 22nd November 1961 at the Royal Festival Hall in London, conducted by the composer himself. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, "Invocation," begins with a solo soprano voice singing a prayer-like melody. The choir then enters, singing a series of chords that gradually build in intensity. The music is characterized by its use of dissonance and complex harmonies, which create a sense of tension and urgency. The movement ends with a return to the solo soprano voice, singing a final plea for peace. The second movement, "The Vision," is a more contemplative and introspective section. The choir sings a series of sustained chords, while the solo soprano voice sings a melody that is both haunting and ethereal. The music is characterized by its use of long, sustained notes and a sense of stillness and calm. The final movement, "The Dance," is a lively and energetic section that features a driving rhythm and complex harmonies. The choir sings a series of syncopated rhythms, while the solo soprano voice sings a melody that is both playful and joyful. The music is characterized by its use of syncopation and complex rhythms, which create a sense of movement and excitement. Overall, "Plebs Angelica" is a complex and challenging work that showcases Tippett's mastery of choral composition. The piece is characterized by its use of dissonance, complex harmonies, and intricate rhythms, which create a sense of tension and urgency. At the same time, the music is also characterized by its moments of stillness and contemplation, which provide a sense of balance and contrast.

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