Thomas Morley (c.1557–1602) was one of the leading figures of the English Madrigal School and the most famous composer of secular music in Elizabethan England. Living in London at the same time as Shakespeare, he helped popularize the madrigal in England by adapting Italian models into a distinctly English style. Scholars note that Morley was “chiefly responsible for grafting the Italian shoot on to the native stock” of English music, sparking a brief but brilliant flowering of madrigal composition. His first book of five-part madrigals, published in 1594, was a direct response to the Italian repertoire he admired, and it set the stage for his prolific output of canzonets, balletts, and madrigals.

“Fyer, fyer!” is one of Morley’s most exuberant and playful madrigals. Written for five voices, it exemplifies the lively word-painting and rhythmic vitality that made his music so appealing to Elizabethan audiences. The text, full of fiery exclamations, is matched by quick, imitative entries and dance-like energy, creating a vivid musical picture of passion and excitement. This piece remains a favorite in madrigal repertoires today, both for its humor and its brilliant ensemble interplay, and it showcases Morley’s gift for combining Italianate elegance with English wit.