Composer

:

Thomas Arne

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1740

Average_duration

:

3:45

"Rule, Britannia" is a patriotic song composed by Thomas Arne in 1740. It was first performed at Cliveden, the country home of Frederick, Prince of Wales, on August 1, 1740, as part of a masque entitled "Alfred". The song quickly became popular and was frequently performed at public events, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries. The song is composed of two verses and a chorus, with each verse celebrating a different aspect of British history and culture. The first verse celebrates Britain's naval power, with the line "When Britain first, at Heaven's command, arose from out the azure main". The second verse celebrates Britain's cultural achievements, with the line "The nations not so blest as thee, must in their turn to tyrants fall". The chorus, which is the most famous part of the song, proclaims "Rule, Britannia! Britannia, rule the waves! Britons never, never, never shall be slaves!" The song is characterized by its stirring melody and patriotic lyrics, which celebrate Britain's power and influence in the world. It has been performed in a variety of musical styles, from classical orchestral arrangements to rock and pop versions. The song has also been used in a number of films and television shows, including the 1941 film "That Hamilton Woman" and the 2003 film "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl". Overall, "Rule, Britannia" remains one of the most iconic and beloved patriotic songs in British history, and continues to be performed and celebrated to this day.

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