Composer

:

Henry Purcell

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Art Song

Compose Date

:

1689

Average_duration

:

3:02

"When a cruel long winter, Z. 629/31" is a composition by Henry Purcell, a renowned English composer of the Baroque era. The piece was composed in the late 17th century and premiered in London in 1695. It is a part of Purcell's larger work, "The Fairy Queen," which is a semi-opera based on William Shakespeare's play, "A Midsummer Night's Dream." "When a cruel long winter" is a vocal piece that features a solo soprano accompanied by a small ensemble of instruments, including violins, viola, cello, and harpsichord. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is marked "Largo" and is characterized by a slow, mournful melody. The soprano sings of the harshness of winter and the pain it brings, both physically and emotionally. The music is somber and reflective, with the strings providing a gentle accompaniment to the singer's voice. The second movement is marked "Allegro" and is much more lively and upbeat than the first. The soprano sings of the coming of spring and the joy it brings, with the music reflecting this sense of renewal and hope. The strings are more prominent in this movement, with the harpsichord providing a lively, rhythmic accompaniment. The final movement is marked "Adagio" and is a return to the somber mood of the first. The soprano sings of the fleeting nature of happiness and the inevitability of pain and suffering. The music is slow and mournful, with the strings providing a gentle, melancholy accompaniment. Overall, "When a cruel long winter" is a beautiful and poignant piece of music that showcases Purcell's skill as a composer. The piece is notable for its use of contrasting moods and tempos, as well as its expressive vocal melody and delicate instrumental accompaniment.

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