Fyer, fyer

Thomas Morley's Fyer, fyer is a secular madrigal for a large choir, written for multiple SATB and SSTB combinations. The English text describes a lover's overwhelming passion, comparing it to an uncontrollable fire. The singer pleads for help and relief, lamenting that no one comes to quench the flames of love. The repetitive 'Fa la la' refrains, typical of the madrigal genre, add a lighter, almost dance-like quality that contrasts with the desperate plea of the main text, creating a dramatic effect. This piece would suit a concert programme aiming to showcase the expressive capabilities of a substantial mixed-voice ensemble.