This edition was prepared by André Vierendeels — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Je vouldrois ce gentil clerc estre
Staff Notation • Secular, Chansons
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Je vouldrois ce gentil clerc estre by Etienne Du Tertre — Lyrics
Je voudrais être ce clerc gentil
non pas pour la grâce qu'on lui trouve
ni pour être ton maître.
Héla, de contraire tu as tant de preuves
car tu sais bien que tout mon oeuvre
Read full lyrics
About Je vouldrois ce gentil clerc estre
The composer imagines himself as a 'gentil clerc', a learned clerk, but not for status or respect. His true desire is to be a servant to his beloved, finding his ultimate fortune in simply being able to see her at the opportune moment. This SATB chanson expresses a humble and devoted sentiment in exquisite French Renaissance part-music. The composer's skill in setting this text, giving voice to such sincere emotion, is evident throughout the piece. It is a secular song of courtly love, where personal aspiration is entirely subsumed by devotion to the beloved.
