Kim André Arnesen

Flight Song

The original version of Flight Song (for SATB) was written as a gift to Dr Anton Armstrong and the St Olaf Choir, Minnesota, with whom Arnesen has worked on a number of occasions. The SSAA version was commissioned and premiered by the Mirinesse Women's Choir and Rebecca Rottsolk. The piece was also Arnesen’s first collaboration with the Welsh poet Euan Tait. The imagery talks of each singer's hidden song, and the conductor drawing that song from the singers. The arms of the conductor, like great wings, shape the singing; music is compassion and the singers' longing is to fly towards other's suffering. The music is suitably flowing, with the composer’s characteristic beautiful melodies and luscious harmony, and has opportunities for all voice sections to shine. An inspirational addition to the repertoire for intermediate choirs.