This edition was prepared by James Gibb — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Farewell unkind farewell
Staff Notation • Secular, Partsongs
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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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Farewell unkind farewell by John Dowland — Lyrics
Farewell unkind farewell, to me no more a father,
Since my heart, my heart holds my love most dear.
The wealth which thou dost reap another's hand must gather,
Though my heart my heart still lies buried there.
Then farewell, then farewell, O farewell,
Welcome, my love, welcome, my joy forever.
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About Farewell unkind farewell
John Dowland’s Farewell unkind farewell is a four-part English secular song. The text expresses a lover’s resolute declaration of devotion, choosing to forsake familial duty and material concerns in favour of their beloved. The singer asserts that true love resides not in fleeting physical attraction or worldly possessions, but in the spirit. The music reflects this poignant sentiment, with Dowland’s characteristic melancholic harmonies underscoring the text’s emotional depth. This setting for SATB voices captures the intimate yet powerful plea of the words, making it a compelling choice for a consort of voices.
