Composer

:

Ellis Gibbons

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

2:27

"Long live fair Oriana" is a choral work composed by English composer Ellis Gibbons. The piece was composed in the late 16th century, during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, and was first performed in 1601. The work is a collection of madrigals, or songs for multiple voices, and is considered one of Gibbons' most famous works. The piece is divided into 25 movements, each of which is a short madrigal. The text of each madrigal is a tribute to Queen Elizabeth I, who was often referred to as "fair Oriana" in contemporary literature. The madrigals are written for five voices, with each voice singing a different part. The music is characterized by its intricate harmonies and use of counterpoint, which creates a rich and complex sound. The first movement, "All creatures now," sets the tone for the piece with its joyful and celebratory melody. Other movements, such as "The silver swan" and "Fair nymphs, I heard one telling," are more melancholic in tone, reflecting the bittersweet nature of Elizabeth's reign. The final movement, "Hark, did ye ever hear so sweet a singing," is a triumphant finale that celebrates Elizabeth's reign and her legacy. Overall, "Long live fair Oriana" is a masterful work of choral music that captures the spirit of Elizabethan England. Its intricate harmonies and complex counterpoint make it a challenging piece for performers, but its beauty and historical significance have ensured its enduring popularity.

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