Composer

:

Thomas Ravenscroft

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Madrigal

Average_duration

:

2:19

"We be soldiers three" is a popular English folk song that was composed by Thomas Ravenscroft in the early 17th century. The exact date of its composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written sometime between 1609 and 1615. The song was first published in Ravenscroft's collection of folk songs, "Deuteromelia," which was released in 1609. The song is a lively and upbeat tune that is typically performed in a round. It is written in a major key and features a simple, repetitive melody that is easy to sing along to. The lyrics of the song tell the story of three soldiers who are preparing to go off to war. They sing about their bravery and their willingness to fight for their country, despite the dangers that they may face. "We be soldiers three" is divided into three distinct movements, each of which is sung by a different voice. The first movement is sung by the lead voice, who introduces the song and sets the tone for the rest of the piece. The second movement is sung by the second voice, who joins in with the lead voice to create a harmonious duet. The third movement is sung by the third voice, who adds a new layer of complexity to the song by singing a different melody that complements the other two voices. One of the most distinctive characteristics of "We be soldiers three" is its use of a round. A round is a musical form in which different voices sing the same melody, but start at different times. This creates a layered effect that is both complex and pleasing to the ear. The use of a round in "We be soldiers three" is particularly effective, as it allows the song to build in intensity as each new voice joins in. Overall, "We be soldiers three" is a classic example of English folk music. Its simple melody, catchy lyrics, and use of a round make it a popular choice for choirs and singing groups around the world. Despite being over 400 years old, the song remains a beloved part of the English musical tradition and continues to be performed and enjoyed by people of all ages.

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