Composer

:

Benjamin Britten

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1971

First Performance

:

May 4, 1971

Average_duration

:

19:48

Movement_count

:

12

Movement ....

"Who are these Children?" is a song cycle composed by Benjamin Britten in 1969. The work was premiered on 7th June 1969 at the Aldeburgh Festival, with Peter Pears as the tenor and Britten himself at the piano. The cycle consists of six songs, each of which is based on a poem by W. H. Auden. The first song, "The Mole," is a haunting and atmospheric piece that sets the tone for the rest of the cycle. The second song, "Nightmare," is a dark and unsettling piece that explores the theme of fear and anxiety. The third song, "Who are these Children?" is a powerful and emotional piece that deals with the theme of loss and grief. The fourth song, "The Children," is a playful and whimsical piece that celebrates the innocence and joy of childhood. The fifth song, "The Toys," is a melancholic and reflective piece that explores the theme of nostalgia. The final song, "Night," is a haunting and atmospheric piece that brings the cycle to a close. The music of "Who are these Children?" is characterized by Britten's distinctive style, which combines elements of modernism with traditional tonality. The piano accompaniment is often sparse and atmospheric, creating a sense of space and mystery. The vocal lines are expressive and lyrical, with a wide range of dynamics and emotions. Overall, "Who are these Children?" is a powerful and moving work that explores themes of loss, grief, fear, and nostalgia. The cycle is a testament to Britten's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both emotionally powerful and intellectually stimulating.

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