Composer

:

John Wilbye

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Madrigal

Compose Date

:

1598

Average_duration

:

3:23

"Lady, when I behold" is a beautiful and romantic madrigal composed by John Wilbye, an English composer of the Renaissance era. The piece was composed in the late 16th century, around 1598, and is considered one of Wilbye's most famous works. It was first published in his collection of madrigals, "The Second Set of Madrigals to 3, 4, 5, and 6 Voices," which was printed in London in 1609. The madrigal is written for five voices, and is characterized by its flowing and melodic lines, rich harmonies, and expressive text. The piece is divided into three distinct sections, or movements, each of which explores a different aspect of the poem's theme. The first movement begins with a gentle and flowing melody in the alto voice, which is then taken up by the other voices in turn. The text of this section speaks of the beauty and grace of the lady being addressed, and the music reflects this with its delicate and elegant lines. The second movement is more lively and rhythmic, with a playful and dance-like melody that is passed between the voices. The text of this section speaks of the lady's wit and intelligence, and the music reflects this with its lively and energetic character. The final movement returns to the gentle and flowing melody of the first, but with a more complex and richly harmonized texture. The text of this section speaks of the lady's kindness and compassion, and the music reflects this with its warm and expressive lines. Overall, "Lady, when I behold" is a beautiful and expressive madrigal that showcases Wilbye's skill as a composer. Its flowing melodies, rich harmonies, and expressive text make it a timeless masterpiece of the Renaissance era.

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