This edition was prepared by David Anderson — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Gossip Joan
Staff Notation • Secular, Partsongs, Folk songs
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Gossip Joan by Geoffrey Shaw — Lyrics
Good morrow, Gossip Joan,
Where have you been a walking?
I have for you at Home
A Budget full of Talking,
Gossip Joan.
My Sparrow’s flown away
And will no more come to me;
I’ve broke a Glass to Day,
The Price will quite undo me,
Gossip Joan.
I’ve lost a Harry Groat,
Was left me by my Granny;
I cannot find it out,
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About Gossip Joan
Geoffrey Shaw's Gossip Joan is a delightful English folksong arrangement for SATB choir. This secular partsong captures the spirit of traditional folk music, offering a lighthearted and conversational text. The lyrics depict two gossiping women, Joan and her companion, sharing a series of minor domestic misfortunes and woes – a lost sparrow, a broken glass, a missing groat, and a need for brandy. The piece builds to a convivial resolution as they decide to head to the alehouse to drown their sorrows and plan to meet again tomorrow. Shaw's setting likely brings out the humor and the communal nature of the text, making it an engaging choice for choirs looking for engaging and characterful repertoire.
