Composer

:

Edward Elgar

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1887

Average_duration

:

7:05

"As I laye a-thinkynge" is a song composed by Edward Elgar in 1890. It was premiered in Worcester on 22nd October 1890, with the composer himself accompanying the singer, Miss Mary Bell. The song is part of a collection of six songs, collectively known as "Opus 10", which were composed during Elgar's early years as a composer. The song is written for a solo voice and piano accompaniment. It is a slow and contemplative piece, with a melancholic and introspective mood. The lyrics, written by the composer himself, describe a moment of reflection and contemplation, as the speaker lies in bed and thinks about the past and the future. The song is divided into three distinct sections, each with its own musical character. The first section is marked "Andante con moto" and is characterized by a flowing and lyrical melody in the piano, which accompanies the singer's introspective musings. The second section, marked "Poco più lento", is more subdued and introspective, with a more sparse and delicate piano accompaniment. The final section, marked "Tempo I", returns to the opening melody, but with a more intense and passionate expression. Overall, "As I laye a-thinkynge" is a beautiful and poignant song, which showcases Elgar's early mastery of melody and harmony. It is a testament to the composer's ability to capture the mood and emotions of a moment, and to express them through music.

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