Composer

:

Thomas Morley

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

before 1593

Publication Date

:

1593

Average_duration

:

1:58

'Whither awaie so fast?' is a madrigal composed by Thomas Morley, an English composer, organist, and theorist of the Renaissance era. The piece was composed in the late 16th century, around 1595, and was first published in his collection of madrigals, "The Triumphs of Oriana" in 1601. The madrigal is written for five voices, with the text describing a woman who is leaving her lover and asking him where he is going so quickly. The piece is in a lively and playful style, with a quick tempo and frequent changes in rhythm and meter. The use of word painting is also prominent in the piece, with the music reflecting the meaning of the text. For example, the word "fast" is set to a quick and lively rhythm, while the word "stay" is set to a slower and more sustained melody. The piece is divided into three movements, with the first and third movements being in a lively and playful style, while the second movement is more subdued and reflective. The first movement begins with a lively and syncopated rhythm in the lower voices, with the upper voices entering with a playful melody. The second movement is more introspective, with a slower tempo and more sustained harmonies. The third movement returns to the lively and playful style of the first movement, with frequent changes in rhythm and meter and a lively and energetic ending. Overall, 'Whither awaie so fast?' is a prime example of Morley's skill in composing madrigals, with its lively and playful style, use of word painting, and frequent changes in rhythm and meter. The piece remains a popular choice for vocal ensembles and is often performed in concerts and competitions.

More....