Il estoit une fillette

Clément Janequin was a French composer of the Renaissance, known for his chansons. Il estoit une fillette is a secular four-part (SATB) chanson setting a witty French text. The song tells the story of a young girl eager to learn about love, who, after an initial hesitant experience, finds the encounter increasingly pleasurable. The lyrics explore the girl's shifting reactions, from initial apprehension to delighted encouragement, culminating in mutual enjoyment and a sweet torment. Janequin's setting would have been intended for intimate social gatherings of the period, showcasing word painting and expressive musical lines characteristic of the chanson genre.