Composer

:

Henry Purcell

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Ode

Compose Date

:

1690

Average_duration

:

32:23

Movement_count

:

21

Movement ....

"Of old when heroes thought it base" is a song composed by Henry Purcell, one of the most prominent English composers of the Baroque era. The song was composed in 1683 and premiered in the same year. It is a part of a collection of songs called "A Choice Collection of Ayres, for the Harpsichord or Spinnet," which was published in 1683. The song is composed of three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is a slow and stately introduction, with a simple melody and a steady bass line. The second movement is more lively and features a more complex melody, with a faster tempo and more intricate harmonies. The third movement is a return to the slower tempo of the first movement, with a more elaborate melody and a more complex harmonic structure. The lyrics of the song are taken from a poem by John Dryden, which celebrates the virtues of ancient heroes and their willingness to sacrifice themselves for their country. The music reflects the heroic and patriotic themes of the poem, with its grand and majestic melodies and its bold and stirring harmonies. Overall, "Of old when heroes thought it base" is a prime example of Purcell's skill as a composer of vocal music. Its combination of elegant melodies, intricate harmonies, and powerful emotions make it a timeless masterpiece of the Baroque era.

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