This edition was prepared by David Anderson — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Beware!
Staff Notation • Secular, Partsongs
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.
Beware! by Howard M. Dow — Lyrics
I know a maiden fair to see,
Take care!
She can both false and friendly be,
Beware! Beware!
Trust her not,
She is fooling thee!
She has two eyes, so soft and brown,
Take care!
She gives a sideglance and looks down,
Beware! Beware!
Trust her not,
She is fooling thee!
And she has hair of a golden hue,
Take care!
And what she says, it is not true,
Beware! Beware!
Read full lyrics
About Beware!
Howard M. Dow’s partsong Beware! paints a vivid picture of a deceptive maiden, warning the listener to trust her not. The text, set in English for SATB choir, uses direct, almost conversational language to convey its cautionary message. The repeated refrain of “Beware! Beware!” emphasizes the urgency and the potentially dangerous allure of the subject. This secular piece is a charming example of the partsong genre, where the vocal lines intertwine to create a playful yet pointed narrative. The composer’s setting effectively captures the playful deceit described in the lyrics, making it an engaging choice for a choir looking for something with a touch of wit and character.
