Let Us Garlands Bring (Finzi)

Let Us Garlands Bring is a song cycle for baritone and piano composed by Gerald Finzi between 1929 and 1942. It consists of five settings of poems from Shakespeare's plays. The cycle is one of Finzi's most popular and enduring works, showcasing his lyrical style and sensitive word-setting.

The Songs

The five songs that comprise the cycle are:

1. "Come Away, Come Away, Death" (from Twelfth Night) – A lament expressing grief and a desire for release.
2. "Who is Silvia?" (from The Two Gentlemen of Verona) – A cheerful and romantic serenade praising Silvia's beauty and virtue.
3. "Fear No More the Heat o' the Sun" (from Cymbeline) – A poignant and comforting song about death offering solace and acceptance.
4. "O Mistress Mine" (from Twelfth Night) – A lively and playful invitation to love and enjoyment.
5. "It Was a Lover and His Lass" (from As You Like It) – A joyous and energetic celebration of spring and youthful love.

Musical Characteristics

Finzi's musical style in Let Us Garlands Bring is characterized by:

• Lyrical Melodies: The vocal lines are flowing and memorable, effectively conveying the emotions of the poems.
• Expressive Harmony: Finzi utilizes rich and nuanced harmonies to enhance the meaning of the text.
• Subtle Word-Setting: The music closely follows the natural rhythms and inflections of the English language.
• Effective Piano Accompaniment: The piano part is not merely an accompaniment but an integral part of the musical texture, providing atmosphere and supporting the vocal line.

Significance

Let Us Garlands Bring is considered a significant contribution to the English song repertoire. It demonstrates Finzi's skill as a composer of vocal music and his deep understanding of Shakespeare's poetry. The cycle's popularity lies in its accessibility, emotional depth, and the enduring appeal of its literary source material. It is frequently performed in recitals and concerts by both professional and amateur singers.