Adieu, sweet Amaryllis

Hathaway’s Adieu, sweet Amaryllis sets a poignant English text of farewell, the anonymous words speaking of parting and heavy tidings. This SATB setting treats the theme with a blend of expressive harmony and clear contrapuntal lines. The interplay between the voices paints the picture of a reluctant adieu, with moments of tenderness and resigned sorrow. The music reflects the text’s emotional arc, building to moments of rich harmonic texture before receding into simpler textures that convey the pain of separation. A fine example of secular part-song writing from its era, it offers a rewarding challenge for mixed voice choirs.