Composer

:

Benjamin Britten

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

4:10

"Ca' the Yowes" is a choral work composed by Benjamin Britten in 1949. The piece is based on a traditional Scottish folk song of the same name, which tells the story of a shepherdess who longs for her lover to return to her. Britten's arrangement of the song is scored for mixed choir and piano. The piece was premiered on July 7, 1949, at the Aldeburgh Festival in Suffolk, England. The performance was conducted by Britten himself, with the choir of St. Bartholomew's Church in Orford. "Ca' the Yowes" is divided into three movements. The first movement is a gentle and lyrical setting of the folk song's first verse, with the choir singing in unison. The second movement is more complex, with the choir singing in four-part harmony and the piano providing a more intricate accompaniment. The third movement returns to the simplicity of the first, with the choir once again singing in unison. One of the most notable characteristics of "Ca' the Yowes" is Britten's use of Scottish folk melodies and rhythms. The piece is infused with the traditional sounds of Scotland, including the use of pentatonic scales and the use of the Scottish snap rhythm. Britten's arrangement also features a number of harmonic and rhythmic surprises, which add to the piece's overall sense of whimsy and playfulness. Overall, "Ca' the Yowes" is a charming and delightful choral work that showcases Britten's skill as a composer and arranger. Its use of traditional Scottish folk melodies and rhythms, combined with Britten's own unique musical voice, make it a standout piece in the choral repertoire.

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