Composer

:

Charles Ives

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Art Song

Compose Date

:

1903 - 1907

Publication Date

:

1922

First Performance

:

Sep 7, 1961

Average_duration

:

2:07

Charles Ives was an American composer who is known for his experimental and innovative approach to music. One of his most famous works is "The Light That is Felt," which was composed in 1902. The piece is a hymn for chorus and orchestra and is based on a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier. "The Light That is Felt" premiered in 1906 in New York City and was performed by the Oratorio Society of New York. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is marked "Andante con moto" and is characterized by a gentle, flowing melody. The choir sings the opening lines of the poem, "Out of the shadows of night / The world rolls into light," while the orchestra provides a soft, supportive accompaniment. The movement builds to a climax with the choir singing, "The light that is felt in the heart." The second movement is marked "Allegro moderato" and is more lively and energetic than the first. The choir sings, "The light that is felt in the mind," while the orchestra provides a driving, rhythmic accompaniment. The movement features a number of dynamic shifts and sudden changes in tempo, reflecting the poem's themes of transformation and renewal. The final movement is marked "Andante maestoso" and is the most grand and majestic of the three. The choir sings, "The light that is felt in the soul," while the orchestra provides a rich, full-bodied accompaniment. The movement builds to a powerful climax, with the choir and orchestra coming together in a triumphant finale. Overall, "The Light That is Felt" is a beautiful and moving piece of music that showcases Ives' unique style and innovative approach to composition. The piece is characterized by its use of complex harmonies, unconventional rhythms, and bold, expressive melodies, making it a true masterpiece of American music.

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