Composer

:

William Walton

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1936

Average_duration

:

1:59

"Under the Greenwood Tree" is a choral work composed by William Walton in 1929. It was premiered on June 12, 1929, at the Three Choirs Festival in Gloucester, England. The piece is based on a text from William Shakespeare's play "As You Like It" and is scored for mixed choir and orchestra. The work is divided into three movements. The first movement, marked "Allegro con brio," is a lively and energetic setting of the text "Under the greenwood tree, who loves to lie with me." The music is characterized by its rhythmic drive and playful melodies, which evoke the carefree spirit of the forest. The second movement, marked "Andante con moto," is a more contemplative setting of the text "Blow, blow, thou winter wind." The music is characterized by its gentle, flowing melodies and lush harmonies, which evoke the melancholy mood of the winter season. The final movement, marked "Allegro vivace," is a joyful and exuberant setting of the text "Wedding is great Juno's crown." The music is characterized by its lively rhythms and celebratory melodies, which evoke the festive spirit of a wedding ceremony. Overall, "Under the Greenwood Tree" is a charming and delightful work that showcases Walton's skillful use of choral and orchestral textures. The piece is notable for its playful melodies, lush harmonies, and rhythmic vitality, which make it a favorite among choral ensembles and audiences alike.

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