This edition was prepared by David Anderson — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
A lover's counsel
Staff Notation • Secular, Partsongs
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2 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
TTBB,SATB · James Gibb
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A lover's counsel by Frederic Hymen Cowen — Lyrics
Have you seen my lady's eyes
Flash with laughter kind and bright?
Never dews from dawning skies
Drew so fair and fine a light.
Should you see them you were lost;
Shun them, shun them, count the cost.
If she do not smile on you,
Look not on her, lest you rue.
Have you seen my lady dream
In an hour of soft repose?
Like shut lilies of the stream
Are her eyelids when they close.
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About A lover's counsel
Frederic Hymen Cowen's A lover's counsel is a charming example of the English partsong tradition. Written for TTBB and SATB choirs, it sets a playful English text that warns the listener of the irresistible allure of the composer's lady. The lyrics describe her captivating eyes, her serene dreams, and the enchanting quality of her singing voice, all while cautioning against looking or listening too closely lest one fall hopelessly in love. The music likely mirrors the light, effervescent quality of the words, making it a delightful and engaging piece for mixed or male voice choirs. It stands as a fine representation of secular choral writing from its era.
