The Air was a musical form that appeared in the 16th
century, in the English Royal court. Originally for
solo lute, they later consisted of songs with vocals in
one to three parts, accompanied by the lute. John
Dowland's First Booke of Songs or Ayres, first
published in 1597, was particularly influential.
Handel's Messiah oratorio, includes this example of an
Air "He was despised", to communicate a pitiful
description of Christ. The music is full of dynamic
contrast, and the tempo is marked as L...(+)
The Air was a musical form that appeared in the 16th
century, in the English Royal court. Originally for
solo lute, they later consisted of songs with vocals in
one to three parts, accompanied by the lute. John
Dowland's First Booke of Songs or Ayres, first
published in 1597, was particularly influential.
Handel's Messiah oratorio, includes this example of an
Air "He was despised", to communicate a pitiful
description of Christ. The music is full of dynamic
contrast, and the tempo is marked as Largo.
Lewis, Alastair (1974 - )
SHEET MUSIC