Composer

:

Franz Joseph Haydn

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1801

Average_duration

:

3:15

Franz Joseph Haydn's "The ewe-bughts, H. 31a/188" is a Scottish folk song that he arranged for voice and piano. The composition was completed in 1794, and it premiered in London in the same year. The piece consists of three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement is marked "Allegro moderato" and is in the key of G major. It begins with a simple piano introduction that sets the mood for the piece. The vocal line enters with the first verse of the folk song, which tells the story of a shepherd who falls in love with a girl while tending his sheep. The melody is simple and lyrical, with occasional embellishments that add interest and color to the line. The piano accompaniment is also relatively simple, with occasional flourishes that complement the vocal line. The second movement is marked "Adagio" and is in the key of E minor. It begins with a mournful piano introduction that sets a somber tone. The vocal line enters with the second verse of the folk song, which tells of the shepherd's heartbreak when he realizes that the girl he loves is already promised to another. The melody is more complex than in the first movement, with a wider range and more intricate phrasing. The piano accompaniment is also more complex, with arpeggios and chromatic harmonies that add depth and emotion to the piece. The third movement is marked "Allegro" and is in the key of G major. It begins with a lively piano introduction that sets a cheerful tone. The vocal line enters with the third verse of the folk song, which tells of the shepherd's determination to find a new love and move on from his heartbreak. The melody is upbeat and energetic, with a jaunty rhythm that reflects the shepherd's newfound optimism. The piano accompaniment is also lively, with syncopated rhythms and playful harmonies that add to the overall sense of joy and hopefulness. Overall, "The ewe-bughts, H. 31a/188" is a charming and well-crafted arrangement of a Scottish folk song. Haydn's skillful use of melody, harmony, and rhythm bring the story to life and capture the emotions of the shepherd as he experiences love, heartbreak, and renewal.

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