Composer

:

Havergal Brian

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

3:34

Renunciation is a choral work composed by Havergal Brian in 1937. The piece was premiered on October 27, 1937, at the Royal Albert Hall in London, conducted by Sir Adrian Boult. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and musical style. The first movement, titled "The World's Great Age," is a setting of a poem by William Butler Yeats. The music is grand and majestic, with a sense of awe and reverence. The choir sings of the passing of time and the cyclical nature of history, with the music building to a powerful climax. The second movement, "The Second Coming," is based on another poem by Yeats. The music is more ominous and foreboding, with a sense of impending doom. The choir sings of a world in chaos, with "anarchy loosed upon the world." The music is dissonant and unsettling, with jagged rhythms and harsh harmonies. The final movement, "Renunciation," is a setting of a poem by George Meredith. The music is more introspective and contemplative, with a sense of resignation and acceptance. The choir sings of the need to let go of worldly desires and embrace a more spiritual existence. The music is more subdued and peaceful, with a sense of calm and serenity. Overall, Renunciation is a powerful and moving work, showcasing Brian's skill as a composer and his ability to convey complex emotions through music. The piece is a testament to the enduring power of choral music and its ability to inspire and uplift audiences.

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