This edition was prepared by Ariel Barton — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
A poor soul sat sighing
Staff Notation • Secular, Folk songs
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.
A poor soul sat sighing by Pelham Humfrey — Lyrics
A poor soul sat sighing by a sycamore tree,
O willow, willow, o willow;
With his hand on his bosom, his head on his knee,
Sing willow, willow, o willow.
Sing o the green willow, sing o the green willow,
The willow shall be a garland for me,
Sing o the green willow.
He sighed in his singing, and after each groan,
O willow, willow, o willow;
I am dead to each pleasure, my true love is gone,
Sing willow, willow, o willow.
Read full lyrics
About A poor soul sat sighing
Pelham Humfrey's A poor soul sat sighing is a solo song in English, drawing on the tradition of folk song. The text depicts a lament of unrequited love, where the singer expresses his deep sorrow and resignation to his fate. The recurring 'willow' motif, often associated with mourning and lost love, underscores the pervasive sadness of the lyrics. The vocal line is written for a high voice, allowing for an expressive portrayal of the singer's anguish. This piece offers a poignant exploration of themes of heartbreak and devotion, fitting for a solo performance seeking to convey profound emotional depth.
