Composer

:

William Walton

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1931

Average_duration

:

3:43

"Make we joy now in this Fest" is a choral work composed by William Walton in 1931. It was premiered on December 22, 1931, at the annual Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols at King's College, Cambridge. The piece is written for SATB choir and organ, and it is divided into three movements. The first movement, marked "Allegro," is a lively and rhythmic setting of the text "Make we joy now in this Fest." The choir sings in unison at first, but then breaks into four-part harmony. The organ provides a driving accompaniment, with fast-moving arpeggios and a strong bass line. The movement is characterized by its energy and exuberance, reflecting the joyous nature of the text. The second movement, marked "Andante," is a more reflective setting of the text "Nowell, Nowell, Nowell." The choir sings in four-part harmony, with a gentle and flowing melody. The organ provides a soft and delicate accompaniment, with gentle chords and arpeggios. The movement is characterized by its peaceful and contemplative mood, reflecting the wonder and awe of the Christmas story. The third movement, marked "Allegro," is a lively and rhythmic setting of the text "Sing we all Noel." The choir sings in four-part harmony, with a lively and syncopated melody. The organ provides a driving accompaniment, with fast-moving arpeggios and a strong bass line. The movement is characterized by its energy and exuberance, reflecting the joyous nature of the Christmas season. Overall, "Make we joy now in this Fest" is a festive and joyful choral work, perfectly suited for the Christmas season. Its lively rhythms, energetic melodies, and exuberant harmonies make it a popular choice for choirs and audiences alike.

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