Pelham Humfrey
Oh! That I had but a fine man
Works Info
Composer:Pelham HumfreyAverage_duration:1:16Pelham Humfrey was an English composer who lived from 1647 to 1674. He was a prominent figure in the English Baroque era, and his works were known for their emotional depth and complexity. One of his most famous compositions is "Oh! That I had but a fine man," a song that premiered in the mid-17th century. The song is a lamentation, expressing the sorrow and longing of a woman who wishes for a man to love and cherish her. It is a solo piece, typically sung by a soprano or mezzo-soprano, accompanied by a harpsichord or other keyboard instrument. The song is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement is slow and mournful, with a simple melody that emphasizes the singer's sadness and despair. The second movement is more lively and upbeat, with a faster tempo and a more complex melody that reflects the singer's hope and optimism. The final movement returns to the slow, mournful character of the first, with a simple and poignant melody that expresses the singer's resignation and acceptance of her fate. Overall, "Oh! That I had but a fine man" is a beautiful and moving piece of music that showcases Pelham Humfrey's skill as a composer. Its emotional depth and complexity make it a timeless classic that continues to be performed and enjoyed by audiences today.More....