Composer

:

Percy Grainger

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1900

Publication Date

:

1995

Average_duration

:

5:13

Mo Nighean Dubh, for chorus, is a Scottish folk song arranged by Percy Grainger in 1902. The piece was premiered in London in 1903 by the Royal College of Music Chorus. The arrangement is in four movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, marked "Slow and mournful," begins with a solo soprano voice singing the first verse of the song. The chorus then enters, singing the same verse in harmony. The movement is characterized by its mournful melody and slow tempo, which convey the sadness of the lyrics. The second movement, marked "Quick and lively," is a stark contrast to the first. The tempo is much faster, and the melody is more upbeat. The chorus sings the second verse of the song, which describes the beauty of the singer's daughter. The movement is characterized by its energetic rhythm and lively melody. The third movement, marked "Slow and expressive," returns to the mournful tone of the first. The chorus sings the third verse of the song, which describes the singer's longing for her daughter. The movement is characterized by its expressive melody and the use of dynamics to convey the emotion of the lyrics. The final movement, marked "Quick and lively," is a reprise of the second movement. The chorus sings the fourth and final verse of the song, which describes the singer's hope that her daughter will return to her. The movement is characterized by its energetic rhythm and lively melody, which convey the optimism of the lyrics. Overall, Mo Nighean Dubh, for chorus, is a beautiful arrangement of a Scottish folk song. Grainger's use of contrasting movements and expressive melodies creates a powerful emotional impact that captures the essence of the lyrics.

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