Paul Hindemith (1895-1963)

When lilacs last in the door-yard bloom'd - A requiem "For those we love" (1946)

for mezzo-soprano, baritone, mixed choir and orchestra

  • General information
    • Composition date: 1946
    • Duration: 60 mn
    • Publisher: Schott
    • Libretto (details, author):

      Walt Whitman

Detailed formation
  • soloists: mezzo-soprano, baritone
  • mixed choir
  • flute, piccolo, oboe, English horn, clarinet, bass clarinet, bassoon, contrabassoon, 3 horns, natural trumpet / bugle, 2 trumpets, 2 trombones, tuba, timpani, 3 percussionists, organ, strings

Premiere information

  • Date: 14 May 1946
    Location:

    États-Unis, New York, New York City Center


    Performers:

    Collegiate Chorale ; Robert Shaw, direction

Table of contents

Prelude
I. "When lilacs..."
II. Arioso "In the swamp..."
III. March "Over the breast of the spring..."
IV. "O western orb..."
V. Arioso "Sing on, there is the swamp..."
VI. Song "O how shall I warble..."
VII. Introduction and Fugue "Lo! body and soul..."
VIII. "Sing on! you gray-brown bird..."
IX. Death Carol "Come, lovely and soothing Death..."
X. "To the tally of my soul..."
XI. Finale "Passing the visions..."