David Bell Music

Vocal Works

Adobe Odes

Contralto, flute, viola, and harp

     This is a nine-song cycle setting the poetry of Pat Mora. The texts are lyrical, fun, profound, and very musical, which made setting them a pleasure.

together one

Soprano, tenor, clarinet, cello, and piano

     This duet was commissioned for a wedding, set to a wonderful text written by the groom.

Agnus Dei

Contralto, viola, and cello

     This was written for a concert commemorating victims of AIDS. It is, naturally, a stark work about loss and grief.

Do not go gentle into that good night

Soprano and string orchestra

     Set to the famous Dylan Thomas poem, this was commissioned by the soloist in honor of her father.

La lune blanche

Soprano and piano

     Very atmospheric setting of the Paul Verlaine poem. It has a high range, perfect for sopranos that like the stratosphere.

i carry your heart

Soprano (or mezzo) and piano

     This is set to a e.e. cummings poem, and is in its way a duet within one person.

Delight

Countertenor/Contralto, oboe, French horn, cello, and piano

     This was commissioned by a countertenor friend of mine. Being about the delight of friends the chamber ensemble really works; each instrument has a specific role in bringing the music together.

Little Bear

Baritone, cello, and piano

     Commissioned in 1996 and set to words by the commissioner to celebrate an anniversary.

Zimnaya Noch (Winter Night)

Soprano and piano

     A setting of Boris Pasternak's poem about long winter nights and what can happen during them.

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