This edition was prepared by James Gibb — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Down from above
Staff Notation • Secular, Madrigals
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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.
SATB · Brian Russell
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Down from above by Thomas Bateson — Lyrics
Down from above falls Jove in rain,
Into fair Danae's lap amain,
She starts thereat, she starts thereat,
Yet lamblike still,
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About Down from above
Thomas Bateson’s madrigal, Down from above, offers a vivid setting of a text that recounts Jupiter’s legendary descent into Danae’s lap as a shower of gold. This secular, SATB part-song captures the narrative’s intrigue and surprise, with the words ‘she starts thereat’ lending themselves to dramatic musical gestures. The piece explores the power of wealth to influence all, a theme that resonates through the intricate vocal lines. Composed in the spirit of Renaissance secular polyphony, this English-language madrigal would suit a choir seeking to present engaging and programmatic vocal music from this era. Its dramatic narrative and rich harmonies make it a compelling choice for concert programming.
