This edition was prepared by Brian Russell — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
As Flora slept
Staff Notation • Secular, Madrigals
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As Flora slept by John Hilton the younger — Lyrics
As Flora slept and I lay waking,
I smile'd to see a bird's mistaking,
Fa la la la
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About As Flora slept
John Hilton the younger’s SATB madrigal As Flora slept paints a charming nocturnal scene. The text describes a delightful moment of mistaken identity where a bird, in the dim light, mistakes the sleeping Flora’s lips for a cherry, gently pecking them. The composer sets this playful text with lighthearted musical gestures, including the characteristic “fa la la” refrain, typical of English madrigal tradition. This secular work offers a delightful glimpse into Renaissance part-song, perfect for choirs looking to explore the genre’s wit and melodic grace. Its manageable SATB voicing and engaging text make it an appealing choice for varied programming.
