Sunset and Evening Star

Description

Soprano, Alto, Bass, Piano — Alfred, Lord Tennyson wrote “Crossing the Bar” when he was 80 years old. The sandbar referenced in the poem pictures the barrier between life and the afterlife. Tennyson saw that process, not as a painful struggle, but as a peaceful transition with the hope that he would see his “Pilot” (God) face to face. This piece was originally written for a developing SAB choir and could be equally at home in a concert or festival setting. Careful attention was given to make the ranges manageable and the vocal lines singable. The rolling accompaniment is meant to picture the gentle waves of the sea. Other word painting includes an accented, bell-like figure for “evening bell” and a prominent major chord that pictures the hope of reuniting with our “Pilot.” Sunset and Evening Star brings Alfred, Lord Tennyson’s Crossing the Bar to life with a peaceful and hopeful portrayal of life’s transition. Written for developing SAB choirs, it features singable vocal lines and manageable ranges. The rolling accompaniment evokes gentle waves, with word painting like bell-like accents for “evening bell” and a luminous major chord symbolizing reunion with the “Pilot.” Perfect for concerts or festivals, this piece offers beauty and depth for performers and audiences alike.

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