This edition was prepared by Stefan Schwarz — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Fine knacks for Ladies, cheap, choice, brave and new
Staff Notation • Secular, Madrigals
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7 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
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Fine knacks for Ladies, cheap, choice, brave and new by John Dowland — Lyrics
1. Fine knacks for ladies, cheap, choice, brave and new,
god penniworths, but money cannot prove,
I keep a fair, but for the fair to view
a beggar may be liberal of love,
Though all my wares be trash, the heart is true.
2. Great gifts are guiles and look for gifts again,
My trifles come as treasures from my mind,
It is a precious jewel to be plain,
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About Fine knacks for Ladies, cheap, choice, brave and new
John Dowland's Fine knacks for Ladies is a delightful secular madrigal for SATB choir, offering a charming commentary on true value versus superficial appearances. Sung in English, the text presents a merchant hawking wares, but ultimately reveals a deeper meaning of genuine love and loyalty found within the heart, rather than in material possessions or ostentatious gifts. The piece would suit a concert program, perhaps as part of a Renaissance or English music selection. Its accessible voicing and engaging text make it a fitting choice for choirs looking to explore the rich tradition of English madrigalism, providing an opportunity to convey wit and sincerity through vocal performance.
