Composer

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Stephen Layton

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Keyboard

Average_duration

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4:07

"And Then It Rained" is a choral work composed by Stephen Layton, a British conductor and composer. The piece was composed in 2011 and premiered on May 14, 2011, at the Barbican Centre in London, England. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement, "The Rain," is a slow and mournful piece that sets the tone for the rest of the work. The second movement, "The Flood," is more intense and dramatic, with the choir building to a powerful climax. The final movement, "The Aftermath," is a reflective and somber piece that brings the work to a close. One of the most striking characteristics of "And Then It Rained" is its use of dissonance and unconventional harmonies. Layton employs a variety of extended techniques, such as cluster chords and glissandos, to create a sense of tension and unease throughout the piece. The choir is also used in unconventional ways, with Layton often dividing the singers into smaller groups to create a more complex and layered sound. Despite its modernist tendencies, "And Then It Rained" is also deeply rooted in the choral tradition. Layton draws on a variety of musical influences, including Gregorian chant and Renaissance polyphony, to create a work that is both innovative and timeless. The piece is a testament to Layton's skill as a composer and his ability to push the boundaries of choral music while still honoring its rich history.

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