Composer

:

John Ireland

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1918

Average_duration

:

1:57

"I Have Twelve Oxen" is a song composed by John Ireland, an English composer and pianist. The song was composed in 1912 and premiered in the same year. It is a part of a song cycle called "The Land of Lost Content," which consists of six songs. "I Have Twelve Oxen" is the second song in the cycle and is set to a poem by A.E. Housman. The song is in the key of G major and has a moderate tempo. It is written for a solo voice and piano accompaniment. The song has three distinct sections or movements. The first section is slow and contemplative, with the singer reflecting on the beauty of the countryside and the simple life of a farmer. The second section is more lively and upbeat, with the singer describing the twelve oxen and their strength and power. The final section returns to the slower tempo of the beginning, with the singer expressing a sense of contentment and satisfaction with his life. The characteristics of "I Have Twelve Oxen" are typical of John Ireland's style. The song is lyrical and expressive, with a strong emphasis on melody and harmony. The piano accompaniment is simple and supportive, allowing the voice to take center stage. The song is also characterized by Ireland's use of modal harmonies and folk-like melodies, which give it a nostalgic and pastoral quality. Overall, "I Have Twelve Oxen" is a beautiful and evocative song that captures the essence of rural life and the beauty of the English countryside. It is a testament to John Ireland's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both simple and profound.

More....