This edition was prepared by David Fraser — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
If that a sinners sighes be Angels foode
Staff Notation • Secular, Lute songs
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If that a sinners sighes be Angels foode by John Dowland — Lyrics
If that a sinners sighes, bee Angels food,
or that repentaunt teares bee Angels wine,
accept O Lord in this most pensive moode,
these hartie sighes and faithfull teares of mine:
That went with Peter forth most sinfullie,
but not with Peter wept most bitterlie.
If I had Davids Crowne to mee betide,
or all his purple robes that hee did weare,
I would lay then such honor all aside,
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About If that a sinners sighes be Angels foode
John Dowland’s If that a sinners sighes be Angels foode offers a poignant moment for reflection, suitable for times of penitence or deep contemplation. This setting for SATB voices, sung in English, is drawn from the genre of lute songs, though here presented without lute accompaniment. The text, a prayer of repentance, draws parallels with biblical figures such as Peter and David, lamenting past sins and seeking divine grace. The composer masterfully captures the sorrowful yet hopeful plea of the lyrics, allowing the choir to express profound spiritual emotion through their combined voices. It’s a moving piece that invites introspection.
