Godwits
music by Anthony Ritchie, for SATB choir, 2 guitars, 2 violins and double bass, Opus 223 (2024)
Godwits is a cycle of songs for choir describing the epic journey of the godwits.
- Duration: 20 minutes
- Commissioned by: Renaissance Singers
- Libretto: Anne French
- Instrumentation: SATB choir, 2 guitars, 2 violins and double bass
- Level: 2 | Proficient amateurs and students
Godwits was commissioned by Renaissance Singers from Palmerston North (New Zealand) for a premiere performance on 18 May, 2024. It is settings of a cycle of poems Godwits by Anne French. The poems describe the epic journey of the Foxton godwits to the other side of the world and back.
The grace and beauty of the birds is captured in the words but also the determination and connection with the whenua. The score features solos for soprano and tenor within the choir.
Notes:
Karakia or karanga may be added for performance.
There is a main part for Guitar 1, along with an easier part for Guitar 2 which may be played by more than one guitarist.
All guitars are acoustic but may be amplified if required.