Composer

:

Thomas Tomkins

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Madrigal

Compose Date

:

1622

Average_duration

:

2:31

"Oft did I marle" is a choral work composed by Thomas Tomkins, an English composer and organist who lived from 1572 to 1656. The piece was likely composed in the early 17th century, although the exact date is unknown. It is a part of Tomkins' larger body of sacred choral music, which includes anthems, services, and other works. The piece is written for four-part choir, with the text taken from Psalm 119:23-24. It is a relatively short work, with a duration of around two minutes. The piece is characterized by its simple, yet elegant harmonies and its use of imitative counterpoint. The melody is primarily homophonic, with the four parts moving together in a mostly chordal fashion. However, there are moments of polyphony, where the different parts weave in and out of each other, creating a rich and complex texture. The piece is divided into two movements, with the first movement setting the text "Oft did I marle, and was in great heaviness, because the ungodly that forsake thy law." This section is marked by a mournful, introspective tone, with the choir singing in a slow and deliberate manner. The harmonies are mostly minor, adding to the sense of sadness and despair. The second movement sets the text "Thy statutes have been my songs in the house of my pilgrimage." This section is marked by a sudden shift in mood, with the choir singing in a more joyful and celebratory manner. The harmonies are mostly major, adding to the sense of happiness and contentment. The movement ends with a brief coda, where the choir repeats the final phrase of the text, "in the house of my pilgrimage," bringing the piece to a satisfying conclusion. Overall, "Oft did I marle" is a beautiful and expressive choral work that showcases Tomkins' skill as a composer. Its simple yet effective harmonies and use of counterpoint make it a memorable addition to the English choral tradition.

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