Composer

:

Franz Joseph Haydn

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

3:24

"Widow, are ye waking?" is a Scottish folk song arranged by Franz Joseph Haydn. The composition is also known as "The Widow's Lament" and is cataloged as H. 31a/75bis. 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 song. The piece is written for voice and piano, and the variations showcase Haydn's skill in creating variations that are both musically interesting and emotionally evocative. The variations range from simple and delicate to complex and virtuosic, with each variation building on the previous one. The first variation is a simple and delicate setting of the melody, with the piano providing a gentle accompaniment. The second variation is more complex, with the piano providing a more active accompaniment and the voice singing a more elaborate melody. The third variation is a virtuosic display of piano technique, with the piano playing a fast and intricate accompaniment while the voice sings a highly ornamented melody. The fourth variation is a return to the simplicity of the first variation, with the piano providing a gentle accompaniment and the voice singing a more subdued melody. The fifth variation is a dramatic and emotional setting of the melody, with the piano providing a powerful accompaniment and the voice singing a highly expressive melody. The final variation is a triumphant and joyful setting of the melody, with the piano providing a lively accompaniment and the voice singing a highly ornamented and celebratory melody. Overall, "Widow, are ye waking?" is a beautiful and emotionally evocative composition that showcases Haydn's skill as a composer and his ability to create variations that are both musically interesting and emotionally powerful. The piece is a testament to the enduring power of Scottish folk music and the ability of great composers to transform simple melodies into works of art.

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