Composer

:

Ralph Vaughan Williams

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Hymn

Compose Date

:

1925

Publication Date

:

1925

Average_duration

:

3:09

"England Arise! The Long, Long Night Is Over Guildford" is a choral work composed by Ralph Vaughan Williams in 1941. The piece was premiered on 28th September 1941 at the Royal Albert Hall in London, conducted by the composer himself. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement, "England Arise!", is a rousing call to arms, with the choir singing in unison to a driving rhythm. The second movement, "The Long, Long Night", is a slower, more contemplative piece, with the choir singing in harmony to a gentle, flowing melody. The final movement, "Guildford", is a triumphant celebration of victory, with the choir singing in full voice to a majestic, uplifting melody. The piece is characterized by its use of traditional English folk melodies and hymns, which are woven together with Vaughan Williams' own original music to create a powerful and evocative work. The composer's love of English folk music is evident throughout the piece, with many of the melodies and harmonies drawing on the rich tradition of English folk song. Overall, "England Arise! The Long, Long Night Is Over Guildford" is a stirring and patriotic work, reflecting the spirit of resilience and determination that characterized Britain during the Second World War. Its powerful choral writing and use of traditional English music make it a quintessentially British work, and one that continues to be performed and celebrated to this day.

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