Composer

:

Ralph Vaughan Williams

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1922

Average_duration

:

1:51

"It Was a Lover and His Lass" is a choral work composed by Ralph Vaughan Williams in 1938. The piece is based on a text from William Shakespeare's play "As You Like It" and was premiered in the same year by the Bach Choir in London. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is a lively and playful setting of the text, featuring a sprightly melody and a bouncy rhythm. The second movement is more introspective, with a slower tempo and a more contemplative mood. The final movement returns to the lively character of the first, with a faster tempo and a more exuberant feel. One of the most notable characteristics of "It Was a Lover and His Lass" is its use of folk-like melodies and harmonies. Vaughan Williams was known for his interest in English folk music, and this influence is evident in the piece. The use of modal harmonies and simple, singable melodies gives the piece a timeless quality that is both charming and accessible. Another notable characteristic of the piece is its use of choral textures. Vaughan Williams was a master of choral writing, and "It Was a Lover and His Lass" showcases his skill in this area. The piece features a variety of choral textures, from unison singing to complex polyphony, and the different textures are used to great effect to highlight the different moods and emotions of the text. Overall, "It Was a Lover and His Lass" is a delightful and charming choral work that showcases Vaughan Williams' skill as a composer and his love of English folk music. Its timeless melodies and harmonies make it a favorite of choirs and audiences alike, and its playful and exuberant character is sure to bring a smile to the face of anyone who hears it.

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