Fill ev'ry glass

This energetic SATB part-song by Johann Christoph Pepusch bubbles with the spirit of conviviality. The music vividly captures the text’s plea to fill glasses and embrace the pleasures of wine, which the composer illustrates with lively rhythms and a joyful, upward-moving melodic line. The voices often move in homophony, creating a bold, declamatory texture that suits the uninhibited sentiment. The interplay between the parts is spirited and direct, mirroring the text’s enthusiastic advocacy for wine, women, and the pursuits of happiness. It is a secular piece that celebrates earthly delights with infectious good humour and musical verve, urging listeners to join in the merry celebration.