The Dream of the Rood
composer: John Casken
text arranger: John Casken
author of original text: Anonymus
for four voices (countertenor, 2 tenors, bass) and instrumental ensemble
Text freely adapted from the Anglo-Saxon poem by John Casken
Commissioned work: Co-commissioned by Liverpool Capital of Culture and The Hilliard Ensemble as part of the European Capital of Culture Programme 2008
Premiere: October 8, 2008 Liverpool, Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral (UK) · Hilliard Ensemble · Conductor: Clark Rundell · Ensemble 10/10
Orchestra instrumentation: 1(afl, pic).0.ca.0.ssax.1(cbsn)-1.0.1.0-perc(crot, vib, mar, bell plate, sizz cym, Swiss cow bell, gong [horizontal], tam-t, 2 bng, 2slit drum, wood drum, 2cong, 2b.d, marac, 5tempbl, vibraslap)-hp-str(0.0.1.0.1)
Publisher: Schott Music Ltd., London
Duration: 25' 0''
Year of composition: 2008
Language: English
Material on hire
Description
The Anglo-Saxon poem The Dream of the Rood was probably written in the 8th Century and is the earliest dream-vision poem in Old English. A fragment of the poem from the section that describes the crucifixion can be found carved on the Ruthwell Cross in Dumfriesshire, and set in stone at a time when Ruthwell was part of the ancient kingdom of Northumbria. In responding to a commission for the Hilliard Ensemble, I was keen to find a dramatic text, but one that would also invite a musical response appropriate to the very nature of this kind of vocal quartet. Writing for the Hilliards together with a mixed instrumental ensemble, and for a generous cathedral acoustic, has had a strong influence on the types of textures and sonorities I have used. The structure of the work is dictated by the form of the poem, but the music could also be seen as consisting of a sequence of motets with both vocal and instrumental interludes.
John Casken
Awards
2009 | British Composer Award
Winner of the vocal catagory - “This is an epic work setting a striking text. We were immediately gripped by its gravitas and beautiful harmonic language - a powerful and emotional piece.” (www.britishcomposerawards.com) additional information
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