This edition was prepared by David Anderson — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
A dirge
Staff Notation • Secular, Partsongs
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A dirge by George J. Webb — Lyrics
This morn, thy gallant bark, love,
Sailed on the sunny sea;
’Tis noon,—and tempests dark, love,
Have wrecked it on the lee.
Ah, wo! ah, wo! ah, wo!
By spirits of the deep
He’s cradled on the billow,
To his unwaking sleep!
Thou liest upon the shore, love,
Beside the swelling surge;
But seanymphs ever more, love,
Shall sadly chaunt thy dirge.
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About A dirge
George J. Webb’s A Dirge is a setting of poignant English lyrics, expressing deep grief over the loss of a loved one at sea. The text paints a vivid picture of hope dashed by sudden storm and the tragic end of a sea voyage, culminating in the lonely vigil of the bereaved. Webb’s SATB part-song captures the sorrowful mood through its harmonic language and vocal interplay. The music evokes the mournful atmosphere, with the voices weaving together to portray the lament and the 'spirits of the deep' who cradle the departed. This secular work offers a powerful emotional journey, suitable for a choir seeking to explore themes of loss and remembrance.
