This edition was prepared by Simon MacHale — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Au traveil suis
Staff Notation • Secular, Chansons
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2 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
ABB · Velthur Tognoni
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Au traveil suis by Johannes Ockeghem — Lyrics
Au traveil† suis que peu de gens croiraient ;
On le peut bien qui veult apercevoir ;
Mais c’est pour maîtresse ainsi qu’autres feraient.
Bien envieux certes aucuns seraient
Si de sa grâce du bien [je] pouvais avoir.
Au traveil suis…
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About Au traveil suis
Johannes Ockeghem's chanson Au traveil suis paints a vivid picture of unrequited love and the secret suffering it entails. The French text, sung by voices in an ABB setting, speaks of being in a state of 'torture' that few would believe, driven by devotion to a mistress. The narrator expresses a desire for recognition and hints at the envy of others who might covet such favour. The lyrics reveal a deep well of emotion, suggesting that the narrator's potential joy would be unbearable to those who wish him ill, to the point of their 'bursting with grief'. This is a secular part-song from the Renaissance, capturing the intricate and often melancholic sentiments of courtly love.
