The Winter Owl

Description

Voice 1, Voice 2, Voice 3, Piano — The text for “The Winter Owl” is adapted from a song from William Shakespeare’s play “Love’s Labour’s Lost”. Shakespeare vividly describes the winter season and how both humankind and animals deal with the frigid temperatures and chilling wind. All the while, a solitary owl hoots merrily in the distance. Since the text was written in the late 16th-century, there are a few phrases that may be unfamiliar to the modern reader, such as: Shepherd blows his nail - he blows on his hands or fingernails to keep them warm. The ways be foul - the roads are treacherous from the winter weather. Keel the pot - Stir the pot to keep it from boiling over. Coughing drowns the parson’s saw - the coughing of the congregation drowns out the pastor’s long-winded sermon. Roasted crabs hiss in the bowl - refers to roasted crab apples used to make a warm cider-like drink. The music affords numerous opportunities to explore expressive and dynamic contrasts while depicting the various wintery scenes. The music should remain light and dance-like throughout, particularly in the syncopated refrain where we hear the owl’s merry note. The Winter Owl by Paul David Thomas is a rhythmic and engaging three-part mixed piece that brings Shakespeare’s text to life. Crisp accents and driving rhythms give the music a lively edge, while clear part writing ensures accessibility for developing choirs. The interplay of voices and the energetic piano accompaniment work together to highlight the natural rhythm of the poetry.

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