Composer

:

Franz Joseph Haydn

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1802 - 1803

Average_duration

:

3:19

"Sae merry as we ha'e been" is a Scottish folk song arranged by Franz Joseph Haydn. The composition is also known as "The Reel of Tulloch" and is cataloged as H. 31a/223. The piece was composed in the late 18th century and premiered in London in 1792. The composition is a set of variations on the Scottish folk tune. The piece is written for a small ensemble of two violins, cello, and piano. The variations are characterized by their lively and playful nature, with each variation building on the previous one. The piece is in the key of G major and is written in a fast tempo. The first variation features a lively melody played by the violin, with the piano providing a rhythmic accompaniment. The second variation features a more complex melody, with the violin and cello playing in harmony. The third variation is a slower, more lyrical section, with the violin playing a beautiful melody over a simple piano accompaniment. The fourth variation is a return to the lively nature of the first variation, with the violin and cello playing in unison. The fifth variation is a playful section, with the violin and cello trading off melodies. The sixth variation is a return to the slower, more lyrical nature of the third variation, with the violin playing a beautiful melody over a simple piano accompaniment. The final variation is a return to the lively nature of the first and fourth variations, with the violin and cello playing in unison and the piano providing a rhythmic accompaniment. The piece ends with a flourish, with all instruments playing together in a final burst of energy. Overall, "Sae merry as we ha'e been" is a lively and playful composition that showcases Haydn's skill as a composer. The variations on the Scottish folk tune are expertly crafted, with each variation building on the previous one to create a cohesive and engaging piece of music.

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