Composer

:

Henry Purcell

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Anthem

Compose Date

:

ca. 1681

Average_duration

:

3:51

"Man that is born of a woman" is a funeral anthem composed by Henry Purcell in the late 17th century. The piece was likely composed in 1680, and it premiered at the funeral of Queen Mary II in 1695. The anthem is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement begins with a somber and mournful instrumental introduction, featuring a descending chromatic bass line that sets the tone for the piece. The choir enters with the text "Man that is born of a woman hath but a short time to live," sung in a slow and mournful manner. The music is characterized by dissonant harmonies and frequent suspensions, creating a sense of tension and sadness. The second movement features a solo soprano singing the text "In the midst of life we are in death," accompanied by a simple and plaintive melody in the strings. The music is more introspective and reflective than the first movement, with a sense of resignation and acceptance of mortality. The final movement is the most uplifting of the three, with the choir singing "Thou knowest, Lord, the secrets of our hearts" in a more hopeful and optimistic manner. The music is characterized by brighter harmonies and a more lively tempo, with a sense of comfort and reassurance. Overall, "Man that is born of a woman" is a powerful and moving piece of music that captures the solemnity and grief of a funeral while also offering a sense of hope and comfort. Purcell's use of dissonance and chromaticism creates a sense of tension and sadness, while the final movement offers a sense of resolution and acceptance.

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