Composer

:

David Lumsdaine

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Compose Date

:

1982

Average_duration

:

15:25

Movement_count

:

13

Movement ....

"What Shall I Sing?" is a contemporary classical composition by David Lumsdaine, a British composer known for his experimental and innovative approach to music. The piece was composed in 1975 and premiered the same year at the Aldeburgh Festival in Suffolk, England. The composition consists of four movements, each of which is based on a different poem by the Australian poet Judith Wright. The movements are titled "The Surfer," "The Company of Lovers," "The Two Fires," and "The Forest." Each movement is scored for a different combination of instruments, including voice, flute, clarinet, violin, cello, and percussion. The first movement, "The Surfer," is a fast-paced and rhythmic piece that captures the energy and excitement of surfing. The second movement, "The Company of Lovers," is a more introspective and lyrical piece that explores the themes of love and companionship. The third movement, "The Two Fires," is a dramatic and intense piece that contrasts the destructive power of fire with the regenerative power of nature. The final movement, "The Forest," is a haunting and atmospheric piece that evokes the mystery and beauty of the natural world. One of the most distinctive characteristics of "What Shall I Sing?" is its use of extended techniques and unconventional sounds. Lumsdaine employs a wide range of techniques, including vocalizations, percussive effects, and microtonal intervals, to create a unique and otherworldly sound world. The piece also features a complex and intricate rhythmic structure, with shifting meters and irregular accents that add to its sense of unpredictability and excitement. Overall, "What Shall I Sing?" is a challenging and rewarding work that showcases Lumsdaine's innovative approach to composition. Its combination of poetry, music, and experimental techniques creates a rich and multi-layered experience that is both thought-provoking and emotionally engaging.

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