Composer

:

Peter Warlock

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1918

Average_duration

:

1:25

'As Ever I Saw' is a choral work composed by Peter Warlock in 1928. The piece was premiered on May 16, 1928, at the Royal College of Music in London. It is a setting of a poem by Thomas Campion, a 16th-century English poet and composer. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked "Allegro moderato" and is in a lively, dance-like rhythm. The second movement is marked "Andante con moto" and is more contemplative in nature, with a slower tempo and more sustained harmonies. The final movement is marked "Allegro vivace" and is a return to the lively, dance-like rhythm of the first movement. The piece is characterized by its use of rich harmonies and intricate counterpoint. Warlock was known for his interest in early music, and this piece reflects that influence. The use of modal harmonies and the incorporation of Renaissance-style polyphony give the piece a timeless quality. The text of the piece is a love poem, and Warlock's setting captures the emotional intensity of the words. The music is both joyful and melancholic, reflecting the complex emotions of the poem. Overall, 'As Ever I Saw' is a beautiful and evocative choral work that showcases Warlock's skill as a composer. Its intricate harmonies and polyphony make it a challenging piece for performers, but its emotional depth and beauty make it a rewarding one.

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