This work investigates the musical adaptation of Shakespearean text for a specific vocal ensemble configuration. John Rutter, a prominent composer of choral music, utilizes his background in classical composition to re-arrange a previously published piece from his cycle When Icicles Hang. The primary argument centers on the viability of adapting established art songs for TTBB (tenor-tenor-bass-bass) instrumentation to expand the repertoire available for male-voice choirs.

Experts and choral directors frequently identify Rutter's arrangements as standard repertoire for academic and community ensembles. The text is noted for its accessibility while maintaining the atmospheric requirements of the original Shakespearean source material.