This edition was prepared by David Anderson — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Cam’ ye by Athol
Staff Notation • Secular, Partsongs
Preview
0
0
Subscribed as
Want Sunday picks sent to another address too?
Free weekly email
Your choir should not be left out in what's trending
Sunday mass selections, psalms, and trending songs in your area — straight to your inbox.
Cam’ ye by Athol by Niel Gow — Lyrics
Cam’ ye by Athol, lad wi’ the philabeg,
Down by the Tummel, or banks o’ the Garry?
Saw ye the lads, wi’ their bonnets an’ white cockades
Leaving their mountains to follow Prince Charlie.
Follow ye, follow ye, whae wadnae follow ye?
Lang hae ye lo’ed an’ trusted us fairly,
Charlie, Charlie, whae wadnae follow thee!
King o’ the Hieland hearts, Bonnie Prince Charlie.
I hae but ae son my gallant young Donald,
But if had I ten, they would follow Glengarry;
Read full lyrics
About Cam’ ye by Athol
This stirring four-part setting in Lowland Scots captures the spirit of Jacobite fervour. The music itself opens with a bold declaration, soon joined by imitative entries across the voices, building a sense of communal commitment. The text speaks of allegiance to Prince Charlie, with patriotic verses detailing loyalty to Highland clans and a readiness to fight. The arrangement effectively conveys the passionate sentiment of the lyrics through its robust harmonies and rhythmic drive, making it an ideal choice for a choir seeking a powerful and historically resonant choral piece. The interplay between the SATB voices creates a dramatic and engaging musical narrative, reflecting the historical context of the song.
