Composer

:

John Farmer

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1599

Average_duration

:

1:37

'A Little Pretty Bonny Lass' is a popular English madrigal composed by John Farmer in the late 16th century. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written around 1599. The piece was first published in Farmer's collection of madrigals, 'The First Set of English Madrigals', which was printed in London in 1599. The madrigal is written for four voices, typically sung by a small choir or vocal ensemble. It is a lively and upbeat piece, with a playful melody and cheerful lyrics. The text of the madrigal describes a young woman who is admired by all who see her, and the music reflects this sense of joy and admiration. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked by a lively and rhythmic melody, with the voices weaving in and out of each other in a playful and intricate pattern. The second movement is slower and more contemplative, with a more complex harmonic structure and a sense of longing and yearning in the lyrics. The final movement returns to the lively and upbeat character of the first, with a joyful and celebratory melody that brings the piece to a rousing conclusion. Overall, 'A Little Pretty Bonny Lass' is a charming and delightful example of the English madrigal tradition. Its catchy melody and playful lyrics have made it a popular piece for choirs and vocal ensembles to this day, and it remains a beloved part of the English choral repertoire.

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