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.