Video footage of the countertenor performing this classic English song. Robert Spencer, lute.
Here is a link to my Deller playlist: http://www.youtube.com/user/kadoguy2006#grid/user/518189837228B363
Have you seen but a bright lily grow Before rude hands have touched it?
Have you marked but the fall of snow
Before the soil hath smutched it?
Have you felt the wool of beaver,
Or swan's down ever?
Or have smelt o' the bud o' the brier,
Or the nard in the fire?
Or have tasted the bag of the bee?
O so white, O so soft, O so sweet is she!
(The text may differ from artist to artist. A "bright" lily or a "white" lily. Attributed to Ben Jonson, from his play "The Devil is an Ass". 1616.
I sang another setting of this text for baritone, when in college... Senior moment, I am afraid, for I do not atm remember the composer. But I loved singing it. I will have to look it up. This is wonderful! :)
MichaelAuthorAllAges 9 months ago
What a great thrill to see a live performance by one of the greatest countertenors of all time. I have several recordings, but have never watched him singing. Thanks for this. A real Treat
cooperdogable 9 months ago