Composer

:

John Tavener

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1977

Average_duration

:

3:22

'... Depart in Peace …' is a choral work composed by John Tavener in 2008. It was premiered on 15 November 2008 at the Royal Albert Hall in London, as part of the BBC's annual Remembrance Day concert. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, titled "Requiem aeternam," is a solemn and mournful setting of the Latin text from the Requiem Mass. The choir sings in unison, with the occasional solo voice rising above the texture. The music is slow and meditative, with long, sustained notes and a sense of timelessness. The second movement, "Dies irae," is a dramatic and intense setting of the Latin text from the Mass for the Dead. The choir sings in a more complex and dissonant harmony, with sudden shifts in dynamics and tempo. The music is full of energy and urgency, reflecting the fear and trembling of the Day of Judgment. The final movement, "In paradisum," is a peaceful and serene setting of the Latin text from the Burial Service. The choir sings in a simple and harmonious melody, with a sense of resolution and acceptance. The music is slow and gentle, with a feeling of transcendence and release. Overall, '... Depart in Peace …' is a powerful and moving work that reflects on the themes of death, remembrance, and hope. Tavener's use of traditional Latin texts and choral techniques gives the piece a timeless quality, while his unique harmonic language and sense of drama make it a contemporary masterpiece.

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