Composer

:

Lou Harrison

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

1985 - 1987

First Performance

:

May 17, 1987

Average_duration

:

12:35

Philemon and Baukis is a chamber opera composed by Lou Harrison in 1958. The opera is based on the Greek myth of Philemon and Baukis, who were an elderly couple that welcomed Zeus and Hermes into their home when they were disguised as beggars. As a reward for their hospitality, Zeus spared their home from a flood that destroyed the rest of the town and turned their humble cottage into a temple. The opera premiered on June 13, 1966, at Mills College in Oakland, California. It consists of three movements, each of which is named after a character in the story: "Philemon," "Baukis," and "Zeus and Hermes." The first movement, "Philemon," is a gentle and lyrical aria sung by the character of Philemon. The music is characterized by its use of pentatonic scales and gamelan-inspired percussion, which give it a distinctly Asian flavor. The second movement, "Baukis," is a duet between Baukis and Philemon. The music is more lively and playful than the first movement, with a bouncy rhythm and a melody that is reminiscent of folk music. The final movement, "Zeus and Hermes," is a dramatic and powerful ensemble piece that brings the story to its climax. The music is characterized by its use of dissonant harmonies and complex rhythms, which create a sense of tension and urgency. Overall, Philemon and Baukis is a beautiful and unique work that showcases Lou Harrison's talent for blending different musical traditions and styles. Its use of gamelan-inspired percussion and pentatonic scales give it a distinctly Asian flavor, while its folk-inspired melodies and complex harmonies make it a truly original work of art.

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