This edition was prepared by Barry Johnston — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Holland
Staff Notation • Secular, Odes
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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.
SATB · Barry Johnston
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Holland by Daniel Read — Lyrics
1. Say, mighty love, and teach my song
To whom thy sweetest joys belong,
And who the happy pairs,
Whose yielding hearts and joining hands
Find blessings twilled with their bands,
To soften all their cares.
2. Not the wild herd of nymphs and swains,
That thoughtless fly into the chains,
As custom leads the way:
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About Holland
Written as an ode, this charming secular song is ideal for a celebratory occasion or a spring concert. Daniel Read's Holland is set for SATB choir and its English text explores the nature of true love. The opening verses dismiss superficial unions, suggesting that genuine affection is not found in impulsive pairings or relationships driven by wealth. Instead, the composer paints a picture of love that is deep, reasoned, and brings lasting comfort, contrasting it with fleeting infatuations and mercenary matches. The music would likely reflect the thoughtful and perhaps joyful sentiment of the text, offering a delightful moment of reflection on a profound subject.
