This edition was prepared by David Anderson — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Airy, fairy Lilian
Staff Notation • Secular, Partsongs
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Airy, fairy Lilian by James Coward — Lyrics
Airy, Fairy Lilian,
Flitting, fairy Lilian,
When I ask her if she love me,
Claps her tiny hands above me,
Laughing all she can;
She’ll not tell me if she love me,
Cruel little Lilian.
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About Airy, fairy Lilian
James Coward sets a dramatic text in this SATB setting of Airy, fairy Lilian. The composer opens with a lively interplay between the voices, capturing the playful yet capricious nature of the title character. The rapid articulation and clear declamation of the English text reflect Lilian's elusive charm and the singer's frustrated pleas. This secular part-song offers an engaging challenge for a choir seeking to explore vivid word painting and dynamic contrast, bringing Tennyson's iconic poem to vibrant life through its colourful choral writing.
