My River Runs To Thee

Hey everybody!

This is my newest piece for SATB choir with piano with Emily Dickinson's poem "My River Runs To Thee." This piece is pretty self-explanatory and was one of my easier pieces to write. I still have to edit some in terms of dynamics, but the notes will pretty much be the same.

I tried to emulate the running of the river in the piano, while having a wash of chords in the choir. All in all, I think the effects turned out quite nicely.

Thanks for looking. Comments are appreciated.

Price Walden

My River Runs To Thee.pdf

My River Runs To Thee.MUS

My River Runs To Thee.MID

It sounds very nice, and I am a fan of the harmonic patterns.

But as I'm sure you've considered, I don't think most pianists could keep up that fast fluttery right hand for that long. Also, as far as the ending goes, it sounds like you want it to fade out, but I don't think that's a very effective effect in a live performance, and especially not in the span of 2 measures.

Thanks for commenting.

As far as the piano part goes, I myself have played through it many times and have had no problem with it. Since I'm only 17, I think most accompanists should have no problem with it. I am going to go back and write in the fadeout so it is better suited for live performance.

Price Walden

Lydian mode, nice. I liked the near minimalist vibe, with the piano staying grounded in repetition while the choral harmonies moved more freely through. Liked the few transitions into the more traditional accompaniment, it worked out well. My only critique would be to experiment with subtle dynamic changes though, only keep it sounding non mechanic and give it an even more "rivery?" quality.

*bump*

I would really appreciate some more comments!

Thanks

Price Walden

I... was honestly at a lost for words. You must be some sort of virtuoso or something because I don't know of any pianist who wouldn't look at the score and scoff. One thing about the voices. In measure 29, I think, the sopranos go from an F5 to a B3. That, to me, seemed a bit of extreme. I agree about the ending and the wanting to fade out... ???

Trust me. I am no virtuoso and I had no trouble playing the accompaniment. Some of you pianists try it for yourselves before you start criticizing.

And about m. 29, that is verging on extreme, but it is singable by all means. It is very easy to hear internally.

Price Walden