Dol-orous Ditty

This anonymous partsong for SATB voices is a delightful example of secular English music from a bygone era. The text humorously contrasts the perceived superiority of Sally's doll with its wooden construction, and then proceeds to describe other dolls made of bran, wax, and leather, each with its own imperfections. Nonsense syllables and playful, almost nonsensical phrases pepper the lyrics, adding to the song's lighthearted and whimsical character. The composer's skillful setting of this amusing text would have been a popular choice for informal gatherings and concerts, showcasing both vocal dexterity and a sense of fun.