The second of the Mysterious Poems, A SEA RITUAL, although a little longer than IN RUIN RECONCILED, has a great deal in common with it. A sea setting, a tomb, and with the intriguing addition of several mermen. The author of this poem, George Darley (1795-1846) was a poet regarded for many years as being 'unreadable', although, whimsically, his textbooks on mathematics were best sellers! This poem could almost be called an incantation, which Mr. Wilcher has set sensitively. His melodic line is not difficult, and the range is suitable for high or medium-high voice. The piano part is not technically difficult, but inkeeping with this composer's practice, requires much thought by the pianist, who must not be regarded as an 'accompanist'.
The third of these mysterious poems, BIRD TREE MAN is by a poet who is still very much with us, David Rowbotham. This poem is written in a style almost as a riddle, and the answer is written in the heading of the song. It is to be found in more than one of St. Paul's many epistles,"....(we are all) members, one of another." The meaning then becomes obvious. Mr. Wilcher has set this song for high voice, making his message clear in twenty-two bars. Apart from an occasional hand stretch, the piano part is not difficult, nor should any problems arise for a good singer, allowing both artists to do their job of interpreting the piece, and enjoying the experience.These three songs have not been labelled 'mysterious' by Mr. Wilcher. The idea is entirely my own because the poetic ideas of two of them are very similar. In all of the foregoing songs, it seems to me that Mr. wilcher is maturing constantly in his chosen field.
Henry Howell, Queensland.
Review source: Music Teacher Magazine, Vol 10. No. 3
