Composer

:

Henry Purcell

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Anthem

Compose Date

:

ca. 1681

Average_duration

:

3:57

In the midst of life, Z. 17b is a funeral anthem composed by Henry Purcell in 1685. It was written for the funeral of Queen Mary II's father, James II, who had been deposed the previous year. The anthem is scored for four-part choir, strings, and continuo. The piece is divided into three movements. The first movement, "Man that is born of a woman," is a somber and mournful setting of the text from the Book of Job. The music is slow and mournful, with long, sustained notes in the strings and a simple, chant-like melody in the choir. The second movement, "In the midst of life," is a stark contrast to the first. It begins with a lively and energetic instrumental introduction, featuring a fast and intricate violin solo. The choir then enters with a joyful and celebratory setting of the text from the Book of Wisdom. The music is full of energy and vitality, with lively rhythms and intricate harmonies. The final movement, "Thou knowest, Lord," returns to the somber and mournful tone of the first movement. The music is slow and mournful, with long, sustained notes in the strings and a simple, chant-like melody in the choir. The text is a prayer for mercy and forgiveness, and the music reflects the solemnity and gravity of the occasion. Overall, In the midst of life, Z. 17b is a powerful and moving work, showcasing Purcell's skill as a composer and his ability to convey a range of emotions through music. The piece is a testament to the enduring power of music to comfort and console us in times of grief and loss.

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