Composer

:

Michael Head

Genre

:

Vocal

Average_duration

:

2:33

Michael Head's "A Green Cornfield" is a beautiful and evocative song cycle that was composed in 1923. The piece was premiered in London in the same year, and has since become a beloved work in the classical vocal repertoire. The cycle consists of five movements, each of which is based on a poem by a different author. The first movement, "The Singer," is a setting of a poem by William Blake. It is a gentle and introspective piece that sets the tone for the rest of the cycle. The second movement, "Loveliest of Trees," is based on a poem by A.E. Housman. It is a more upbeat and optimistic piece that celebrates the beauty of nature and the passing of time. The third movement, "When I was One-and-Twenty," is another Housman setting. It is a poignant and melancholy piece that explores the pain of lost love and the wisdom that comes with age. The fourth movement, "The Lent Lily," is based on a poem by Christina Rossetti. It is a delicate and ethereal piece that captures the fleeting beauty of spring flowers. The final movement, "A Green Cornfield," is a setting of a poem by Christina Rossetti. It is a triumphant and joyful piece that celebrates the renewal of life and the beauty of the natural world. The cycle as a whole is characterized by its lush harmonies, lyrical melodies, and sensitive treatment of the text. Overall, "A Green Cornfield" is a masterpiece of the art song genre. Its timeless themes and beautiful music continue to captivate audiences and inspire performers to this day.

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