Composer

:

Herbert Howells

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1964

Average_duration

:

7:37

Herbert Howells' "The Summer is Coming" is a choral work that was composed in 1956. It was premiered on June 23, 1956, at the Three Choirs Festival in Worcester, England. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, "The Summer is Coming," is a lively and energetic piece that captures the excitement and anticipation of the arrival of summer. The music is characterized by its bright and cheerful melodies, which are accompanied by a lively and rhythmic piano part. The choir sings in unison, with occasional harmonies, and the overall effect is one of joy and celebration. The second movement, "The Swallow," is a more reflective and introspective piece. The music is slower and more contemplative, with a hauntingly beautiful melody that is sung by the choir in unison. The piano part is more subdued, providing a gentle accompaniment to the choir's singing. The lyrics speak of the arrival of the swallow, a symbol of the changing seasons and the passage of time. The final movement, "The Green Corn," is a lively and upbeat piece that celebrates the bounty of the summer harvest. The music is characterized by its driving rhythms and lively melodies, which are sung by the choir in unison. The piano part is more complex and virtuosic, providing a lively and energetic accompaniment to the choir's singing. The lyrics speak of the abundance of the summer harvest, and the joy and celebration that comes with it. Overall, "The Summer is Coming" is a beautiful and evocative choral work that captures the spirit of the changing seasons and the beauty of the natural world. Its three movements each offer a unique perspective on the arrival of summer, and the music is characterized by its lively rhythms, beautiful melodies, and rich harmonies.

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