Mamlok, Ursula: Cantata

Cantata for mixed choir and piano (or organ) is an early work by Ursula Mamlok, if you could call the composition of a woman in her mid-thirties early. In 1958, at the time of composition of the piece, the composer had just completed her studies at the Manhattan School of Music. In the following years, while studying with Stefan Wolpe and Ralph Shapey, she turned towards serial technique and developed the style which was to become typical of her in later decades. Cantata is also a musical testimony to a transitional period and takes a special – and very interesting – position, not least because choral compositions are rare in Mamlok's oeuvre. The one-movement composition of almost seven minutes' duration is based on Psalm 1 in English. Like a ritornello, the word "Blessed" recurs several times, characteristically harmonized with fourth chords. The choral movement is quite varied and unfolds to up to eight parts. Solos emerge periodically from all voice groups. Homophonic sections contrast with thematically fragmented and imitative sections, accompanied sections with a cappella sections. What is also interesting is the instrumental part which not only accompanies the voices but stands out individually and in various interpretations.