IHS :: HNN :: American Composer Puts Evolution to Music

On Feb. 6, 2009, less than a week before Charles Darwin's birthday 200th birthday, an oratorio inspired by the life and works of the famed evolutionary biologist, premiered at the State University of New York College at Oswego, in Oswego, N.Y.

An oratorio is a long choral work, traditionally with a theme from Scripture. Think, Handel's Messiah or J. S. Bach's St. Matthew Passion.

The Origin: An Opera-Oratorio, by modern classical composer Richard Einhorn, is, according to Einhorn, a celebration of Darwin's thought and life in music. It concentrates specifically on the writing and ideas in "On the Origin of Species."

This may be the first time an oratorio has been composed on a scientific theme.

Highlighted by cburell

The composer said that he had wanted to write music about a scientific subject for a long time. His thoughts turned specifically to evolution and Darwin following an argument with a close friend who believed that "intelligent design" creationism should be taught alongside evolution in science classes.

Highlighted by cburell

He remains "amazed" to learn that "anyone could reject or be repelled by this incredibly beautiful, and so obviously correct, theory of life's diversity."

After a year and a half of almost daily composing, Einhorn produced a 105-minute-long work for 150 people, including musicians and vocalists. The music is scored for a soprano, baritone, chorus, orchestra, and Kitka, an eight-woman Eastern European vocal ensemble.

Highlighted by cburell

"All of the lyrics come from Darwin's writing, " said Avrakotos. "It's a tribute to Darwin and a tribute to thought. It's amazing. "

Poet Catherine Barnett collaborated with composer Einhorn to compile and arrange Darwin's writings.

Highlighted by cburell