Composer

:

Frank Ticheli

Genre

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

2007

Average_duration

:

04:18

Earth Songs is a choral work composed by Frank Ticheli in 2005. It was premiered on March 5, 2005, by the California State University, Fullerton University Singers, under the direction of Robert Istad. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, "There Will Be Rest," is a setting of a poem by Sara Teasdale. It begins with a gentle, flowing melody in the sopranos and altos, accompanied by a simple piano accompaniment. The tenors and basses enter with a rich, warm harmony, building to a climax before returning to the peaceful opening melody. The movement ends with a serene, peaceful resolution. The second movement, "The Earth is Full of Beauty," is a setting of a poem by Richard Le Gallienne. It begins with a lively, rhythmic melody in the sopranos and altos, accompanied by a driving piano accompaniment. The tenors and basses enter with a contrasting melody, creating a rich, complex texture. The movement builds to a powerful climax before returning to the opening melody. The movement ends with a triumphant, joyful resolution. The third movement, "Water Night," is a setting of a poem by Octavio Paz. It begins with a haunting, ethereal melody in the sopranos and altos, accompanied by a shimmering piano accompaniment. The tenors and basses enter with a deep, resonant harmony, creating a sense of mystery and wonder. The movement builds to a powerful climax before returning to the opening melody. The movement ends with a sense of awe and wonder. Overall, Earth Songs is a beautiful and powerful choral work that celebrates the beauty and wonder of the natural world. Ticheli's use of rich harmonies, flowing melodies, and driving rhythms creates a sense of joy, peace, and wonder that is sure to inspire and uplift audiences.

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