Composer

:

Wilhelm Stenhammar

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

9:07

Ithaca for baritone and orchestra, Op. 21, is a composition by Swedish composer Wilhelm Stenhammar. The piece was composed in 1903 and premiered on November 26, 1904, in Stockholm, Sweden. The work is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 25 minutes. The first movement, "The Departure," begins with a slow and somber introduction, featuring the orchestra playing a mournful melody. The baritone enters with a recitative-like passage, singing of the protagonist's departure from his homeland. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the orchestra and soloist trading off phrases until the movement reaches a climax. The movement ends with a return to the somber opening theme. The second movement, "The Sea Voyage," is a scherzo-like section that depicts the protagonist's journey across the sea. The music is lively and energetic, with the orchestra playing a fast-paced, rhythmic accompaniment to the baritone's singing. The movement features several contrasting sections, including a slower, more lyrical passage in the middle. The movement ends with a return to the fast-paced opening theme. The final movement, "The Arrival," is a triumphant section that depicts the protagonist's arrival in Ithaca. The music is grand and majestic, with the orchestra playing a fanfare-like melody. The baritone enters with a powerful and heroic singing, celebrating the protagonist's arrival in his new home. The movement features several contrasting sections, including a slower, more reflective passage in the middle. The movement ends with a return to the triumphant opening theme. Overall, Ithaca for baritone and orchestra, Op. 21, is a powerful and emotional work that showcases Stenhammar's skill as a composer. The piece features a wide range of musical styles and moods, from somber and mournful to lively and triumphant. The work is a testament to the power of music to evoke strong emotions and tell compelling stories.

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