April is in my mistress' face

Thomas Morley was a leading figure of the English madrigal school. This secular work for four voices is a delightful example of the genre, using polyphony and word painting to bring its text to life. The lyrics present a charming, if somewhat contradictory, comparison of the beloved's features and temperament to the seasons. While her face evokes the freshness of spring, her eyes the warmth of summer, and her heart a wintry coldness, the music captures this playful contrast. The composer's skill is evident in how the vocal lines interact to express the imagery of the text, making it an engaging choice for chamber choirs.