Anúna – Ah, Robyn

Ah, Robin

First off, this is one of my most favorite choral groups, primarily because they take visual cues rather than having a conductor/director. It’s amazing to watch live (I had the opportunity a few years back).

This song is on their latest album, Illumination, which you can get from a variety of vendors including iTunes. It’s a Madrigal and was composed by William Cornysh (1465-1523). I was first exposed to this particular song by The Tallis Scholars. I saw them in Cincinnati at the St. Peter in Chains Cathedral for their concert series. If you love sacred/choral music, check out their new schedule for 2012-2013. They have a fantastic lineup including The King’s Singers, Tenebrae and Chanticleer. Their own in-house Cathedral Choir is amazing as well. I attended the Tenebrae service in April.

Here’s a preview of their entire album…

More about Anúna on their website.

Lyrics:

Ah, Robin, gentle, Robin,
Tell me how thy leman doth
and thou shalt know of mine.

My lady is unkind I wis,

Alack why is she so?

She lov’th another better than me,

and yet she will say no.

Ah, Robin, gentle, Robin,
Tell me how thy leman doth
and thou shalt know of mine.

I cannot think such doubleness 

for I find women true,

In faith my lady lov’th me well 

she will change for no new.

Ah, Robin, gentle, Robin,
Tell me how thy leman doth
and thou shalt know of mine.