Composer

:

Havergal Brian

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

2:11

When Icicles Hang by the Wall is a choral work composed by Havergal Brian in 1923. The piece was premiered on December 18, 1923, at the Royal College of Music in London. The composition is divided into four movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, "When Icicles Hang by the Wall," is a setting of a text from Shakespeare's play "Love's Labour's Lost." The movement begins with a haunting melody sung by the choir, accompanied by a sparse piano accompaniment. The melody is then taken up by the orchestra, which gradually builds in intensity until the choir returns with a powerful climax. The second movement, "Blow, Blow, Thou Winter Wind," is a setting of a text from Shakespeare's play "As You Like It." The movement is characterized by its lively, dance-like rhythm and playful orchestration. The choir sings the text in a light, almost whimsical manner, while the orchestra provides a lively accompaniment. The third movement, "Winter," is a setting of a text by the English poet William Blake. The movement is characterized by its slow, mournful melody and somber orchestration. The choir sings the text in a hushed, reverent manner, while the orchestra provides a haunting accompaniment. The final movement, "Dirge for Fidele," is a setting of a text from Shakespeare's play "Cymbeline." The movement is characterized by its mournful melody and somber orchestration. The choir sings the text in a slow, mournful manner, while the orchestra provides a haunting accompaniment. Overall, When Icicles Hang by the Wall is a powerful and evocative choral work that showcases Havergal Brian's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its haunting melodies, somber orchestration, and powerful climaxes, making it a memorable addition to the choral repertoire.

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