Morgen!

Richard Strauss composed “Morgen!” as the final piece in a set of four songs Op. 27, No. 4 in 1894. His orchestration of it some three years later was for soprano and solo violin. Known for his large-scale operas and tone poems, Strauss' lieder are excellent examples of the genius he displays in approaching the small form with such delicate intimacy. “Morgen!” is filled with the late romantic musical language of Strauss but requires in performance the pristine clarity and exquisite simplicity of any slower Mozart aria - rindente la calma, etc.

Be sure to express the music fully, exploring every sound of every word and always allowing the accompanist and chorus an opportunity for complete dialogue - always taking plenty of time to enjoy every moment of silence.

Alan Raines, Director of Choral Activities at Baylor University,
is a frequent guest conductor and sought-after clinician,
conducting all-state and honor choirs throughout much of the
United States. His guest appearances abroad have taken him to
South Korea, Europe and Russia. Dr. Raines's choirs have performed for
regional conventions of the American Choral Directors Association
and the Georgia Music Educators Association. He is also a member of
the conducting faculty at the summer festival La Musica Lirica in Urbania, Italy.

Click here to see a sample.

Click here to listen to a recording (MP3).