En m'oyant chanter

En m'oyant chanter is a secular French chanson by Jean de Castro, written for three voices (STT). This piece likely dates from the Renaissance, a period rich in secular part-music. The text humorously describes a singer who, when heard singing, is criticized for lacking musical skill and advised to learn his scales. The singer retorts that he drinks far too much already without needing to learn music theory. Its light-hearted and relatable subject matter, combined with its intimate vocal forces, makes it suitable for informal gatherings or as a charming interlude in a concert programme.