Experience the Beauty of Nature through Mystic Choral Music
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Sure on This Shining Night: A Poem by James Agee
- The Beauty of the Natural World
- Morten Lauridsen: The Dean of American Choral Composers
- The Mystical Music of Morten Lauridsen
- A Preview of the Program: "Shore on the Shining Night"
- Jake Runestad: A Familiar Composer
- "Come to the Woods" - A Musical Journey with John Muir
- Introducing Paul Rudy: A Young Composer
- An Ecstatic Love for the Universe: The Music of Paul Rudy
- Aaron Copland: Choral Music Maestro
- The Beginning: A Challenging Masterpiece
🎵 Sure on This Shining Night: A Program of Music Inspired by Nature 🌌
Introduction
Welcome to "Sure on This Shining Night: A Program of Music Inspired by Nature," the second program in our summer series. This concert takes its name from the renowned piece by Morten Lauridsen, "Shore on the Shining Night," which is based on the poem by James Agee. In this program, we will explore the beauty of the natural world through mystical and contemplative choral music. Join us on this journey of wonder and appreciation for the world around us.
Sure on This Shining Night: A Poem by James Agee
The centerpiece of our program is Morten Lauridsen's composition, "Shore on the Shining Night," inspired by James Agee's poem. Agee beautifully captures the essence of a night spent outdoors, gazing at the stars. This poem resonates strongly here in Santa Fe, a place renowned for its physical beauty and clear night skies. As we weave Lauridsen's music into this program, we celebrate the profound connection between music and the natural world.
The Beauty of the Natural World
Our program concept revolves around the beauty of the natural world and our role as stewards of the environment. Santa Fe, being a conscious community that thrives close to nature, will find resonance in the music performed. Music has the power to evoke wonder, awe, and a sense of majesty, just like a breathtaking outdoor experience. Through this concert, we aim to awaken a deeper appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us, especially here in Santa Fe.
Morten Lauridsen: The Dean of American Choral Composers
Morten Lauridsen holds a special place in the realm of American choral music. Revered as the Dean of American Choral Composers, Lauridsen's music encompasses mysticism, contemplation, melody, and sheer beauty. Many may be familiar with his works, such as "Road Home," featured in our recent Santa Fe Desert Chorale recording. His composition, "Midwinter Songs," in contrast to "Shore on the Shining Night," exudes a more modernist and spiky style. With Lauridsen's music as the centerpiece of our program, we can expect an exquisite and melodious experience.
The Mystical Music of Morten Lauridsen
Lauridsen's music invites us into a realm of mysticism, where melodic lines and harmonies intertwine to create an enchanting ambiance. His compositions have a contemplative quality, enabling the listeners to embrace moments of introspection and stillness. Through the ethereal nature of his music, Lauridsen transports us to a world where the beauty of the natural world and the power of music merge seamlessly.
A Preview of the Program: "Shore on the Shining Night"
In "Shore on the Shining Night," we explore the evocative power of music inspired by the natural world. Alongside Lauridsen's captivating compositions, we will feature works by other esteemed composers. One of them is Jake Runestad, whose music we have been performing over the years. His piece, "Come to the Woods," sets the exquisite words of John Muir, a celebration of the majestic forests and nature's wonders. The composition beautifully captures Muir's sense of awe and breath-taking experiences in nature.
Jake Runestad: A Familiar Composer
Jake Runestad, a talented composer and singer with the Desert Chorale, has a unique ability to infuse his compositions with energy, excitement, and contemplation. His music not only pays homage to the thrill of climbing trees and conquering mountaintops, but also to the quieter, reflective moments that nature presents. With his compositional style perfectly complementing the theme of a summer's night beauty, Runestad's contribution to the program promises to be immersive and emotionally captivating.
"Come to the Woods" - A Musical Journey with John Muir
"Come to the Woods," composed by Jake Runestad, brings to life the words of the renowned naturalist, John Muir. Inspired by Muir's experiences in the Muir Woods of Northern California, the composition speaks to the profound connection between humanity and the natural world. Runestad's music captures the excitement of climbing trees, the serenity of forests, and the grandeur of mountains. As we embark on this musical journey, we'll be reminded of the vast and awe-inspiring beauty that surrounds us.
Introducing Paul Rudy: A Young Composer
Paul Rudy, a rising composer, will also have his work featured in our program. Notably, Paul is not only a composer but also a part of the Desert Chorale as a singer. His piece, inspired by the great Persian mystic Hafiz, delves into the exploration of the night sky. This aligns perfectly with our program's focus on the beauty of the natural world and the ecstatic love shared by two individuals. Paul's composition is a testament to his deep connection to the universe, and we are excited to share this musical experience with our audience.
An Ecstatic Love for the Universe: The Music of Paul Rudy
Paul Rudy's composition ignites a spark within us, kindling an intense and ecstatic love for both our fellow human beings and the cosmos that surrounds us. As the piece unfolds, we immerse ourselves in a world of passionate emotions and surreal beauty. Just as the night sky enchants us with its vastness, so does Paul Rudy's music capture the immensity of love and the wonder of existence itself.
Aaron Copland: Choral Music Maestro
As our Shore on the Shining Night program nears its dramatic conclusion, we will be showcasing one of the greatest masterworks of twentieth-century choral music, Aaron Copland's "The Beginning." While Copland is widely recognized for his orchestral pieces, this composition truly showcases his brilliance in the choral realm. This challenging work requires both the choral ensemble and mezzo-soprano soloist to perform acapella for 20 minutes, a testament to the exceptional skill and artistry of the Desert Chorale.
The Beginning: A Challenging Masterpiece
"The Beginning," with its setting based on the familiar words from Genesis, takes us on a remarkable journey through the creation of the world. Each day of creation is skillfully painted through Copland's picturesque music. From the formation of various elements of nature to the majestic presence of whales, birds, and great creatures, the composition captures the essence of the creative process. Finally, with a crescendo of energy and excitement, we bear witness to the creation of human beings. "The Beginning" encapsulates Copland's ability to evoke both lyricism and vibrancy, creating a truly enthralling piece of choral music.
Highlights
- Immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world through mystical choral music.
- Experience Morten Lauridsen's captivating compositions, celebrating the wonders of the night.
- Join us on a musical journey with Jake Runestad as we explore the splendor of forests and mountains.
- Feel the ecstatic love for the universe as Paul Rudy's composition captures the essence of passion and wonder.
- Conclude the program with Aaron Copland's remarkable masterpiece, "The Beginning," a choral odyssey through creation.
FAQs
Q: Who is Morten Lauridsen?
A: Morten Lauridsen is considered the Dean of American Choral Composers. Known for his mystical and contemplative music, Lauridsen's compositions beautifully capture the essence of the natural world.
Q: What is the inspiration behind "Shore on the Shining Night"?
A: "Shore on the Shining Night" is inspired by the poem of the same name by James Agee. The poem speaks of the beauty of a night spent outdoors, contemplating the stars.
Q: Will there be any familiar composers featured in the program?
A: Yes, Jake Runestad, a composer whose music we have performed before, will be featured in the program. His compositions resonate with the excitement and contemplation of nature.
Q: What can we expect from Aaron Copland's "The Beginning"?
A: "The Beginning" is a challenging masterpiece that takes inspiration from the words of Genesis. This choral composition showcases Copland's ability to paint vivid images of creation, from the natural world to the creation of humanity.
Q: How long is the program?
A: The program will feature a variety of compositions and will last approximately [insert duration].
Please note that the information provided here is subject to change. For the most up-to-date details, please visit concertwebsite.com.
