Robert Fayrfax
That Was My Woo
Works Info
Composer:Robert FayrfaxGenre:VocalStyle:SongAverage_duration:2:35"That Was My Woo" is a choral work composed by Robert Fayrfax, an English composer of the Renaissance period. The piece was likely composed in the early 16th century, during the reign of King Henry VIII. It is believed to have been premiered at the Chapel Royal, where Fayrfax served as a singer and composer. The piece is written for four voices, with the text in English. It is a secular work, with a playful and lighthearted tone. The title "That Was My Woo" refers to a popular folk song of the time, which is quoted in the piece. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is lively and rhythmic, with a syncopated melody that is passed between the voices. The second movement is slower and more contemplative, with a rich harmonic texture and expressive melodic lines. The final movement returns to the lively and playful character of the first, with a lively dance-like rhythm and a joyful sense of celebration. One of the most notable characteristics of Fayrfax's style is his use of complex harmonies and intricate counterpoint. In "That Was My Woo," he employs a variety of techniques to create a rich and varied texture, including imitative polyphony, homophonic textures, and rhythmic syncopation. The piece also features a number of melodic motifs and themes that are developed and transformed throughout the work. Overall, "That Was My Woo" is a charming and engaging work that showcases Fayrfax's skill as a composer. Its lively rhythms, intricate harmonies, and playful character make it a delightful addition to the repertoire of Renaissance choral music.More....