A lyrical and peaceful setting of the iconic poem by Hone Tuwhare.


Opus No : 134b

Category : Song / Baritone

Year : 2008

Duration : 6 minutes


Instrumentation: Baritone and orchestra 3222/2000/2perc/celesta/harp/strings

Level : 3 - for professional and semi-professional musicians

Available from the composer


Programme Note

Rain is an iconic poem by Hone Tuwhare, describing beautifully a feature of the weather but also subtly ruminating on death. The setting is quiet and lyrical, with an optional part for a rainmaker (to be played by the singer).

This setting for baritone and piano was written for Matt Landreth, and recorded by him. The recording and score were auctioned to raise funds for the Otago Hospice appeal in May 2008, upon request from Martin Ferguson. The song was subsequently scored for orchestra and recorded by Matt Landreth and the Auckland Philharmonia.

Duration: 6 minutes approx.