Composer

:

Joseph Phibbs

Genre

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

2012

First Performance

:

2012

Average_duration

:

4:39

'Lullay, lullay, thou lytil child' is a choral work composed by Joseph Phibbs in 2016. The piece was premiered on December 10, 2016, by the Choir of St John's College, Cambridge, under the direction of Andrew Nethsingha. The work is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a different text. The first movement, "Lullay, lullay, thou lytil child," is a traditional English lullaby. The second movement, "Balulalow," is a Scottish lullaby attributed to James, Earl of Moray. The final movement, "Sweet was the Song," is a 15th-century English carol. Phibbs' setting of these texts is characterized by its simplicity and beauty. The choral writing is largely homophonic, with the voices moving together in block chords. The harmonies are lush and warm, with occasional dissonances adding a touch of tension. The melodies are simple and memorable, with occasional moments of ornamentation adding interest. The first movement, "Lullay, lullay, thou lytil child," is set for unaccompanied choir. The text is sung in a gentle, rocking rhythm, with the sopranos and altos taking turns singing the melody. The harmonies are warm and comforting, creating a sense of security and peace. The second movement, "Balulalow," is also set for unaccompanied choir. The text is sung in a lilting, dance-like rhythm, with the sopranos and altos again taking turns singing the melody. The harmonies are more complex than in the first movement, with occasional dissonances adding a touch of tension. The final movement, "Sweet was the Song," is set for choir and organ. The text is sung in a joyful, celebratory rhythm, with the choir and organ trading off the melody. The harmonies are bright and colorful, with occasional moments of chromaticism adding interest. Overall, 'Lullay, lullay, thou lytil child' is a beautiful and moving work that captures the spirit of the Christmas season. Phibbs' simple yet effective choral writing creates a sense of warmth, comfort, and joy that is sure to delight audiences and performers alike.

More....