Date:
Published in 1609 (in Deuteromelia)
Description:
“Lady, Come Down” is a lively and flirtatious English catch (round) from the early 17th century, featured in Thomas Ravenscroft’s collection Deuteromelia. The piece is short, repetitive, and humorous, written for multiple voices to be sung in canon. Its cheerful character and simple structure made it popular for informal singing in taverns and social gatherings.
Discussion:
This song is one of many from Ravenscroft’s collections that reflect the social and musical culture of early Stuart England. Catches like “Lady, Come Down” rely on overlapping entries and comic timing. It’s a fine example of how rounds were used to amuse and entertain rather than for solemn or courtly occasions.
Composer:
Thomas Ravenscroft
Arranged by:
Originally presented in round format; modern arrangements are available for various vocal groupings (typically 3 voices).
Sheet Music:
Included in Ravenscroft’s Deuteromelia (1609); also found in many modern collections of rounds and catches.
The arrangement we use is available here as a pdf or musescore file
Parts:
Three voices (Canon/Round)
Type:
English catch / round (secular vocal music)
Language:
English
Ranges:
Suitable for beginner to intermediate singers; each line is brief and melodic, and parts are interchangeable in performance.
Advice for beginners:
Focus on accurate entrances and maintaining your line while hearing the others around you. The overlapping text is part of the humour, so ensure the timing is crisp and the mood is light. Start slowly and build confidence before increasing tempo.
Sound Files:
Here are some sound files for reference. mid, round with 4 voices