Composer

:

Arnold Bax

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1914 - 1946

Average_duration

:

37:23

Arnold Bax's "The Bard of Dimbovitza" is a song cycle for voice and piano, composed in 1917. The work is based on a collection of Romanian folk poems translated into English by Carmen Sylva, the pen name of Queen Elisabeth of Romania. The premiere of the work took place in London in 1918, with the composer accompanying the singer. The song cycle consists of six movements, each based on a different poem. The first movement, "The Bard of Dimbovitza," sets the tone for the entire work with its haunting melody and melancholic harmonies. The second movement, "The Young Prince," is more lively and rhythmic, with a dance-like quality. The third movement, "The Old Lute," is a slow and introspective piece, with a mournful melody that is reminiscent of a funeral dirge. The fourth movement, "The Swineherd," is a lively and playful piece, with a jaunty melody that evokes the image of a shepherd tending to his flock. The fifth movement, "The Princess," is a romantic and lyrical piece, with a soaring melody that captures the beauty and grace of the princess. The final movement, "The Return," is a triumphant and celebratory piece, with a grand melody that brings the cycle to a rousing conclusion. The characteristics of "The Bard of Dimbovitza" are typical of Bax's style, which is characterized by lush harmonies, rich textures, and a strong sense of atmosphere and mood. The work is also notable for its use of folk melodies and rhythms, which Bax incorporates into his own unique musical language. Overall, "The Bard of Dimbovitza" is a beautiful and evocative work that showcases Bax's talents as a composer and his deep appreciation for the folk music of Romania.

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