Composer

:

Peter Warlock

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1923

Average_duration

:

2:04

"Milkmaids" is a song cycle composed by Peter Warlock in 1922. The premiere of the work was given by the composer himself, accompanied by the singer, Nancy Evans, in London. The cycle consists of six movements, each of which is based on a poem by various poets. The first movement, "The Night," is a setting of a poem by John Fletcher. It is a slow and melancholic piece that sets the mood for the rest of the cycle. The second movement, "The Contented Lover," is a lively and playful piece that sets a contrasting mood to the first movement. The poem is by Thomas Campion. The third movement, "The Milkmaid," is a setting of a poem by Richard Barnfield. It is a gentle and pastoral piece that captures the innocence and simplicity of the milkmaid's life. The fourth movement, "The Lover's Ghost," is a haunting and eerie piece that sets a poem by John Masefield. The fifth movement, "The Aspidistra," is a humorous and satirical piece that sets a poem by Hilaire Belloc. It is a playful and light-hearted piece that provides a welcome contrast to the darker themes of the previous movements. The final movement, "The First Mercy," is a setting of a poem by Robert Bridges. It is a slow and contemplative piece that brings the cycle to a peaceful and reflective close. Overall, "Milkmaids" is a beautiful and evocative song cycle that showcases Warlock's skill as a composer. The cycle is characterized by its pastoral themes, haunting melodies, and playful humor. It is a testament to Warlock's ability to capture the essence of poetry in his music.

More....