Composer

:

Charles Tomlinson Griffes

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Orchestral

Compose Date

:

Jun 1919

Publication Date

:

1945

First Performance

:

Jun 22, 1919

Average_duration

:

5:44

Charles Tomlinson Griffes' "The White Peacock" is a tone poem for orchestra, Op. 7/1, A. 121, composed in 1915. The piece premiered on March 31, 1919, in New York City, conducted by Walter Damrosch. The piece is divided into three movements, each depicting a different aspect of the titular bird. The first movement, "The Dance of the Peacock," is a lively and rhythmic portrayal of the bird's flamboyant dance. The second movement, "The Peacock Mourns the Death of the Moon," is a slower and more mournful section, representing the bird's sadness at the passing of the night. The final movement, "The Peacock Displays His Tail," is a triumphant and majestic section, showcasing the bird's stunning plumage. Griffes' use of orchestration is particularly noteworthy in this piece. He employs a wide range of instruments, including harp, celesta, and a variety of percussion instruments, to create a rich and colorful sound. The piece also features a prominent solo for the English horn, which adds a haunting and melancholic quality to the second movement. Overall, "The White Peacock" is a stunning example of Griffes' unique style, which blends elements of Impressionism, Symbolism, and American folk music. The piece is characterized by its lush harmonies, intricate textures, and vivid imagery, making it a true masterpiece of early 20th-century orchestral music.

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