Composer

:

E.J. Moeran

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

In Youth is Pleasure is a song cycle composed by E.J. Moeran in 1926. The premiere of the work was given by the tenor John Goss and the pianist Gerald Moore in London on 22nd November 1927. The cycle consists of six songs, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first song, "In Youth is Pleasure", is a lively and energetic piece that captures the exuberance of youth. The second song, "All-Praise to Thee", is a more contemplative piece that reflects on the beauty of nature and the divine. The third song, "The Sailor and Young Nancy", is a playful and humorous piece that tells the story of a young sailor and his love for Nancy. The fourth song, "The River-God's Song", is a haunting and atmospheric piece that evokes the mystery and power of the river. The fifth song, "The Jolly Carter", is a lively and cheerful piece that celebrates the joys of life. The final song, "Twilight", is a reflective and melancholic piece that captures the bittersweet nature of growing older. Moeran's music is characterized by its use of folk melodies and modal harmonies, which give his work a distinctive English flavor. His music is also notable for its lyricism and sensitivity to text, which allows him to capture the emotional nuances of the poetry he sets to music. Overall, In Youth is Pleasure is a charming and engaging song cycle that showcases Moeran's talent as a composer. Its varied moods and characters make it a rewarding work for both performers and listeners alike.

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