Date:
1609
Description:
“I Lay with an Old Man” is a humorous English song by Thomas Ravenscroft, included in his Deuteromelia (1609). This piece falls under the category of a “catch,” a type of English round or canonic song that was popular in the late 16th and early 17th centuries. The song is known for its bawdy lyrics and playful, repeated musical phrases.
Discussion:
The song is a typical example of a “catch,” where each voice enters in turn, creating a layered, interwoven texture. The text and music reflect the playful and sometimes risqué humor that was common in English social gatherings. Ravenscroft’s Deuteromelia features a number of such rounds and catches, many of which are designed to entertain and amuse. “I Lay with an Old Man” is a light-hearted piece that combines simple melodies with cheeky lyrics, making it an enjoyable work for both performers and audiences.
Composer:
Thomas Ravenscroft (c. 1588–c. 1635)
Arranged by:
Original composition; modern arrangements for vocal ensembles and choirs are available.
Sheet Music:
Available in collections of Ravenscroft’s works, such as Deuteromelia (1609) or later anthologies of Renaissance English music.
The arrangement we use is available here as a pdf, mus or musescore file
Parts:
Typically performed as a three-part round (catch), though arrangements for other vocal configurations exist.
Type:
Catch / Round
Language:
English
Ranges:
Suitable for voices in a typical early music range (Soprano, Alto, Tenor), but adaptable for various vocal settings.
Advice for beginners:
Due to its canonic structure, it is important to focus on entering at the correct time and maintaining rhythmic precision. The playful, slightly mischievous nature of the song should be reflected in the performance, with clear articulation and attention to dynamics to highlight the humor.
Sound Files:
Here are some sound files for reference. mid