Composer

:

John Tavener

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1986

Average_duration

:

2:07

John Tavener's "In Memory of Cats" is a choral work that was composed in 2008. The piece was premiered on October 25, 2008, at the Royal Albert Hall in London, England, by the BBC Symphony Chorus and Orchestra, conducted by David Robertson. The work is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a poem by the composer's friend, Kathleen Raine. The first movement, "The Cat," is a setting of Raine's poem of the same name. It is a slow and mournful piece that features a solo soprano voice and a choir. The second movement, "The Sun," is a more upbeat and lively piece that features a solo tenor voice and a choir. The final movement, "The Moon," is a slow and contemplative piece that features a solo alto voice and a choir. The characteristics of "In Memory of Cats" are typical of Tavener's style. The work is heavily influenced by his interest in Eastern spirituality and features a mix of Western and Eastern musical elements. The use of solo voices and choir is also a common feature of Tavener's choral works. The piece is also notable for its use of silence and space, which creates a sense of contemplation and reflection. Overall, "In Memory of Cats" is a beautiful and moving choral work that showcases Tavener's unique style and musical vision. Its premiere at the Royal Albert Hall was a fitting tribute to the composer, who passed away in 2013.

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