It features pervasive vocal divisi (splitting voice parts), making it the most technically demanding piece in the cycle for a choir. Harmonic Language:
The piece begins with a piano introduction that establishes a hypnotic, rhythmic pulse. It is not a driving rhythm, but a gentle rocking—a cradling motion. When the choir enters, they do so softly. Lauridsen employs his famous "pyramid chords," where the harmony shifts slowly, allowing the listener to bathe in the resonance of each chord change. lauridsen soneto de la noche pdf
Do not expect tonality in the traditional sense. The PDF will show: It features pervasive vocal divisi (splitting voice parts),