Drink To Me Only With Thine Eyes
TTBB choral score unaccompanied
PEL2100-Choir Unaccompanied
A WORK FOR TTBB CHOIR UNACCOMPANIED
This traditional Old English air, with the immortal lyrics by Ben Johnson (1573 - 1637), was arranged for the tenors and basses of Capella Regalis Men and Boys Choir for their 2013 Nova Scotia concert tour. Rich harmonies abound in a closely-voiced setting that is deeply romantic.
Video
Notes
Included on the recording "Greater Love" with Capella Regalis Men and Boys Choir and Paul Halley, directed by Nick Halley
Texts
Drink To Me Only With Thine Eyes
Words: Ben Johnson (1573 - 1637)
Music: Old English air, arranged by Paul Halley (1952 - )
Drink to me only with thine eyes,
And I will pledge with mine;
Or leave a kiss within the cup,
And I'll not ask for wine.
The thirst that from the soul doth rise
Doth ask a drink divine;
But might I of Jove's nectar sup,
I would not change for thine.
I sent thee late a rosy wreath,
Not so much honoring thee
As giving it a hope, that there
It could not withered be.
But thou thereon didst only breathe,
And sent'st it back to me;
Since when it grows, and smells, I swear,
Not of itself, but thee.[2]
