Composer

:

Benjamin Britten

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

ca. 1960

Average_duration

:

2:54

"At the Mid Hour of Night" is a song composed by Benjamin Britten in 1937. It was premiered on May 12, 1937, at the Wigmore Hall in London, with Britten accompanying the singer, Peter Pears, on the piano. The song is part of Britten's collection of folk song arrangements, which he composed throughout his career. The song is set to a traditional Irish melody and features lyrics by Thomas Moore. It is a slow and melancholic piece, with a haunting melody that is typical of Irish folk music. The song is in the key of G minor and is written in a simple, strophic form, with each verse set to the same melody. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked "Lento," and features a simple, flowing melody in the piano accompaniment. The singer enters with the first verse, singing in a gentle, mournful tone. The second movement is marked "Poco più mosso," and features a more lively and rhythmic melody. The singer's voice becomes more animated, as he sings of the joys of love. The final movement is marked "Lento," and returns to the melancholic mood of the first movement. The singer's voice becomes more subdued, as he sings of the pain of lost love. Overall, "At the Mid Hour of Night" is a beautiful and haunting piece of music, which showcases Britten's skill as a composer and arranger. The piece is a testament to the enduring power of traditional folk music, and the ability of great composers to breathe new life into old melodies.

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