Composer

:

Edmund Rubbra

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1922

Average_duration

:

1:03

Edmund Rubbra's 'The Mystery, Op.4/1' is a choral work that was composed in 1921. It premiered on 22nd November 1921 at the Royal College of Music in London. The piece is divided into three movements and is scored for a four-part choir, with the addition of a solo soprano in the second movement. The first movement, marked 'Andante con moto', begins with a unison chant-like melody in the tenors and basses, which is then taken up by the altos and sopranos. The music is characterized by its modal harmonies and use of dissonance, which creates a sense of mystery and tension. The movement ends with a quiet, contemplative section in which the choir sings the words "O Lord, how manifold are thy works". The second movement, marked 'Allegro moderato', features a solo soprano who sings the words "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills". The choir provides a gentle accompaniment, with the music gradually building in intensity as the soprano's melody becomes more florid. The movement ends with a return to the opening material, with the choir singing the words "O Lord, how manifold are thy works" once again. The final movement, marked 'Andante sostenuto', is the longest of the three. It begins with a quiet, hymn-like melody in the altos and sopranos, which is then taken up by the tenors and basses. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the choir singing the words "The heavens declare the glory of God". The movement features a number of climactic moments, with the choir reaching full volume before subsiding into quieter, more contemplative sections. The piece ends with a quiet, peaceful section in which the choir sings the words "O Lord, how manifold are thy works" once again. Overall, 'The Mystery, Op.4/1' is a hauntingly beautiful choral work that showcases Rubbra's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its use of modal harmonies, dissonance, and climactic moments, which create a sense of mystery and awe.

More....