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About the author
Born in Chester in 1947, Howard Skempton has worked as a composer, accordionist, and music publisher. Renowned for the distinctive clarity of his musical language, he has composed over 300 pieces, many of which are miniatures for solo piano or accordion. His orchestral and instrumental works have been recorded by, among others, the BBC Symphony Orchestra and Ensemble Bash. In recent years, Skempton has concentrated increasingly on writing vocal and choral music; his choral commissions include works for the BBC Singers and the Belfast Philharmonic Society. He is currently an Honorary Professor of Music at De Montfort University.
Summary
for SS unaccompanied
Skempton's simple and reflective setting of John Clare's poem was commissioned by the Aldeburgh Festival and composed for The Abbey Chapel Choir, Woodbridge. With its fluid changes of time signature and unusual harmonic inflections, Song's Eternity evokes a sound-world unique to Skempton. The modest scoring and simple movement within the parts make the work accessible to all upper-voice or treble choirs looking to try something new.
Additional text
It will provide an interesting challenge for adult and child singers alike, and a moment of refreshment in any concert programme.
