Description

Jonathan Cole: Sorful Ter - For Soprano and Piano

Product Information

ISMN: 9790570026081 / 979-0570026081
Product Type: Score
Setting: Vocal: Soprano and Piano
Language: English
Length: 16 pages
Published: 2004
Publisher: Ricordi
Item Number: RICL00000800
Other Reference: RICL 8

Overview

"Sorful Ter" is a deeply moving and contemplative composition by Jonathan Cole, written for soprano and piano and published in 2004. Drawing on two evocative medieval poems, the work gives voice to the imagined reflections of the Virgin Mary as she mourns the suffering and sacrifice of her son. Through this lens, Cole explores universal themes of grief, maternal love, and spiritual anguish. Spanning 16 pages, the score is rich in emotional and musical depth. The soprano line is marked by expressive lyricism, often weaving between restrained lament and moments of dramatic intensity. Cole’s vocal writing captures the nuance of the text—its archaic flavor and poignant imagery—through delicate phrasing, wide-ranging dynamics, and subtle shifts in mood.

The piano accompaniment plays an essential role, not merely supporting the voice but acting as a partner in expression, painting emotional landscapes with sparse textures, resonant harmonies, and timbral colorations that evoke both medieval austerity and modern introspection. Cole’s sensitive treatment of the language and his command of pacing result in a piece that is as spiritually resonant as it is musically sophisticated. Sorful Ter stands as a testament to the composer’s ability to bridge historical texts with contemporary expression, creating a compelling dialogue between past and present. This work is particularly suited for advanced vocalists and accompanists looking to explore contemporary sacred or reflective repertoire. It is ideal for recitals, liturgical settings, or thematic concert programs that center on motherhood, mourning, or Marian devotion.

Product Features

Format: Score
Instrumentation: Soprano and Piano
Page Count: 16 pages
Genre: Contemporary vocal music with medieval influences

Interesting Facts

Thematic Depth: The piece explores deep emotional themes, reflecting on motherhood and the sacred, making it a profound choice for performances.
Composer Recognition: Jonathan Cole is recognized as one of the most exciting composers of his generation, having received the Royal Philharmonic Society Composition Prize in 1999.
Performance History: "Sorful Ter" has been performed in various settings, showcasing its appeal to both performers and audiences alike.