Composer

:

Philip Lawson

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Average_duration

:

4:27

'Lullay my liking' is a beautiful and haunting Christmas carol composed by Philip Lawson, a British composer, arranger, and singer. The piece was composed in 1996 and premiered by the King's Singers, a renowned British a cappella group, in their album 'A Little Christmas Music' in the same year. The carol is a four-part choral arrangement that features a soprano soloist in the opening and closing sections. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement is marked 'Moderato' and begins with a solo soprano singing the opening line, "Lullay my liking, my dear son." The other voices then join in, creating a rich and harmonious texture. The melody is simple and repetitive, with a gentle lullaby-like quality that evokes the image of a mother singing to her child. The second movement is marked 'Allegro' and features a faster tempo and more complex harmonies. The soprano soloist returns, this time singing the line, "Sleep, my dear, and take thy rest." The other voices provide a lively and rhythmic accompaniment, creating a sense of joy and celebration. The final movement is marked 'Andante' and returns to the slower tempo and simpler harmonies of the first movement. The soprano soloist sings the closing line, "All this night bright angels sing," and the other voices join in, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere. The piece ends with a gentle fade-out, leaving the listener with a sense of calm and contentment. Overall, 'Lullay my liking' is a beautiful and evocative Christmas carol that showcases Philip Lawson's skill as a composer and arranger. The piece is characterized by its simple yet effective melodies, rich harmonies, and expressive use of solo and choral voices. It is a timeless classic that continues to be performed and enjoyed by choirs and audiences around the world.

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