Composer

:

Herbert Howells

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

6:40

"Master Tallis' Testament" is a choral work composed by Herbert Howells in 1940. It was premiered in the same year at the Three Choirs Festival in Gloucester, England. The piece is divided into three movements and is approximately 14 minutes in length. The first movement, marked "Lento moderato," begins with a solemn and mournful melody in the lower voices. The upper voices then enter with a soaring, lyrical line that gradually builds in intensity. The movement reaches a climax with a powerful chord progression before subsiding into a quiet, reflective ending. The second movement, marked "Allegro," is a lively and rhythmic scherzo. The choir sings in a fast and intricate canon, with each voice entering at different times and overlapping with the others. The movement is full of energy and vitality, with a playful and joyful character. The final movement, marked "Andante molto moderato," returns to the solemn and reflective mood of the first movement. The choir sings a simple and beautiful melody, accompanied by a gentle organ accompaniment. The movement gradually builds in intensity, with the choir singing in rich harmonies and the organ playing a powerful pedal line. The piece ends with a quiet and peaceful resolution. "Master Tallis' Testament" is a tribute to the English composer Thomas Tallis, who lived in the 16th century. Howells was inspired by Tallis' music and sought to pay homage to him through this piece. The work is characterized by its rich harmonies, intricate counterpoint, and expressive melodies. It is considered one of Howells' most significant choral works and has become a staple of the English choral repertoire.

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