Samuel, Rhian: Yr Alarch (The Swan). Solo Baritone

Range: G sharp – G sharp (plus falsetto C)

Prized among Welsh speakers, the anonymous 14th-century poem Yr Alarch (‘The Swan’) is a striking verbal portrait of ‘this being without blemish’, conveyed in terms of memorable imagery which has inspired Rhian Samuel’s short setting for unaccompanied baritone. A rarity in its being a true solo song, this stirring tone-picture is also a showpiece, part lyrical, part declamatory, with contemporary vocal techniques sensitively employed. It will be enjoyed by Welsh-speaking singers and audiences for its heightened atmosphere that conveys the magical presence of a creature ‘ bright-white above birds … Heaven’s cockerel, a shining crag.’

Also available for solo soprano (Y341).