Composer

:

Ivor Gurney

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1920

Average_duration

:

2:14

"Black Stichel" is a song cycle composed by Ivor Gurney in 1920. The premiere of the cycle was given by the tenor John Goss and pianist Gerald Moore in London on 22nd November 1920. The cycle consists of six songs, each of which is based on a poem by the Scottish poet, William Soutar. The first song, "Black Stitchel," is a haunting and atmospheric piece that sets the tone for the rest of the cycle. The piano accompaniment is sparse and eerie, with dissonant chords and a sense of foreboding. The vocal line is equally sparse, with long, sustained notes that create a sense of tension and unease. The second song, "The Wind," is a more upbeat and lively piece, with a faster tempo and a more rhythmic piano accompaniment. The vocal line is more melodic, with a sense of movement and energy that reflects the subject matter of the poem. The third song, "The Dancers," is a slower and more contemplative piece, with a gentle piano accompaniment that creates a sense of stillness and introspection. The vocal line is more lyrical, with a sense of longing and nostalgia that reflects the theme of the poem. The fourth song, "The Ships," is a more dramatic and intense piece, with a faster tempo and a more complex piano accompaniment. The vocal line is more declamatory, with a sense of urgency and power that reflects the subject matter of the poem. The fifth song, "The Rain," is a slower and more melancholy piece, with a gentle piano accompaniment that creates a sense of sadness and loss. The vocal line is more expressive, with a sense of longing and regret that reflects the theme of the poem. The final song, "The Singer," is a more upbeat and celebratory piece, with a faster tempo and a more rhythmic piano accompaniment. The vocal line is more melodic, with a sense of joy and exuberance that reflects the subject matter of the poem. Overall, "Black Stichel" is a powerful and evocative song cycle that showcases Gurney's skill as a composer and his ability to capture the mood and tone of Soutar's poetry. The cycle is characterized by its haunting melodies, sparse piano accompaniments, and sense of atmosphere and emotion.

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