Jan petit Jan

This lively French chanson from the Renaissance offers a humorous reflection on marital relations. It is set for SATB choir. The text playfully advises Jan, who has a beautiful wife, to guard her well but avoid jealousy, as a bad reputation would follow. It suggests that if he doesn't have a beautiful wife, he is fortunate, and that he should let lovers have their time, not speaking ill of them. Instead, he should let them believe he loves them, prompting them to dismiss any potential envy. The music likely reflects the lighthearted and perhaps slightly ironic mood of the lyrics, making it a charming selection for a secular program.