Composer

:

Percy Grainger

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1904 - 1938

Publication Date

:

1982

Average_duration

:

3:40

'Lord Maxwell's Goodnight' is a beautiful and hauntingly melancholic song composed by Percy Grainger in 1902. The piece is written for voice and piano and is based on a traditional Scottish folk song. It was premiered in London in 1903 and has since become one of Grainger's most popular works. The song is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is slow and mournful, with a simple piano accompaniment that sets the mood for the entire piece. The second movement is more lively and upbeat, with a faster tempo and a more complex piano part. The final movement returns to the slow and mournful character of the first, bringing the piece to a somber and poignant conclusion. The lyrics of 'Lord Maxwell's Goodnight' tell the story of a young man who is about to be executed for a crime he did not commit. He bids farewell to his friends and loved ones, knowing that he will never see them again. The song is filled with a sense of sadness and loss, but also with a quiet strength and resilience that speaks to the human spirit. Grainger's composition is notable for its use of unconventional harmonies and rhythms, which give the piece a unique and haunting quality. The piano accompaniment is sparse and understated, allowing the voice to take center stage and convey the emotional depth of the lyrics. Overall, 'Lord Maxwell's Goodnight' is a beautiful and moving work that showcases Grainger's skill as a composer and his deep appreciation for traditional folk music. Its timeless themes of love, loss, and resilience continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a beloved classic of the art song repertoire.

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