Patrick Hawes: The Dead Soldier: Chœur Mixte et Ensemble

The Dead Soldier originally appeared as part of the third movement of The Great War Symphony written to commemorate the centenary of the First World War. It is important for choirs to be aware throughout of the independent, melodic accompaniment where much of the sorrow of this moving poem is centred. Every effort should be made to convey the words clearly especially in the first verse where the syntax is quite complex. Equally important, is that performers should identify with the deep pain felt at the loss of a loved one.