Composer

:

Charles Ives

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1912

Publication Date

:

1922

First Performance

:

Nov 17, 1936

Average_duration

:

1:22

At Sea, S. 213 is a composition for orchestra by the American composer Charles Ives. It was composed in 1906 and premiered in 1912. The piece is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 12 minutes. The first movement, titled "From the Steeples and the Mountains," begins with a slow and somber introduction that gradually builds in intensity. The main theme is then introduced by the brass section, which is followed by a series of variations on the theme. The movement ends with a return to the somber mood of the introduction. The second movement, titled "The Unanswered Question," is a haunting and introspective piece that features a solo trumpet asking a series of questions that go unanswered. The strings provide a backdrop of ethereal harmonies that create a sense of mystery and uncertainty. The final movement, titled "Sea Drift," is a dramatic and powerful piece that captures the tumultuous nature of the sea. The orchestra is used to create a sense of motion and turbulence, with the strings and brass sections playing off each other to create a sense of tension and release. The movement ends with a triumphant climax that brings the piece to a close. Overall, At Sea, S. 213 is a complex and challenging work that showcases Ives' innovative approach to orchestration and his ability to create powerful emotional landscapes through music. It is a testament to his status as one of the most important American composers of the 20th century.

More....