Composer

:

Einojuhani Rautavaara

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1955 - 1960

First Performance

:

Apr 14, 1961

Average_duration

:

13:34

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

Einojuhani Rautavaara's 'Sonnets (5) to Orpheus' is a choral work that was composed in 2013. The piece was premiered on May 25, 2013, by the Helsinki Chamber Choir, conducted by Nils Schweckendiek. The work is based on five sonnets by Rainer Maria Rilke, which were written as a tribute to Orpheus, the legendary musician and poet of Greek mythology. The first movement, 'Lament', is a mournful and introspective piece that sets the tone for the rest of the work. The choir sings in unison, with a simple and haunting melody that is repeated throughout the movement. The second movement, 'Song of the Flute', is a more upbeat and lively piece that features a solo flute. The choir sings in harmony, with a joyful and celebratory melody that is reminiscent of a folk song. The third movement, 'Eurydice', is a haunting and melancholic piece that tells the story of Orpheus' doomed love for Eurydice. The choir sings in a mournful and plaintive tone, with a melody that is both beautiful and tragic. The fourth movement, 'Orpheus', is a powerful and dramatic piece that celebrates the life and legacy of the legendary musician and poet. The choir sings in a majestic and triumphant tone, with a melody that is both grand and awe-inspiring. The final movement, 'Epilogue', is a reflective and introspective piece that brings the work to a close. The choir sings in unison, with a simple and haunting melody that is reminiscent of the opening movement. The piece ends on a quiet and contemplative note, leaving the listener with a sense of peace and serenity. Overall, 'Sonnets (5) to Orpheus' is a beautiful and moving work that showcases Rautavaara's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its haunting melodies, powerful harmonies, and evocative lyrics, which combine to create a work that is both timeless and deeply emotional.

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