Date:
c. 1599
Description:
Weep, O Mine Eyes is a late Elizabethan madrigal by English composer John Bennet. The text and music express sorrow and unrequited love, set in lush polyphony characteristic of the English madrigal tradition.
Discussion:
This piece was published in Bennet’s Madrigalls to Fovre Voyces (1599). It pays homage to John Dowland, quoting the first line of Flow, My Tears both textually and musically. The work is a fine example of expressive word painting, particularly in the descending motifs that suggest weeping. The interweaving vocal lines require ensemble sensitivity and clear intonation.
Composer:
John Bennet
Arranged by:
Originally for SATB; various modern editions available
Sheet Music:
Available in early music anthologies and madrigal collections
The arrangement we use is available here as a pdf, mus, or musescore file.
Parts:
SATB
Type:
English madrigal
Language:
English
Ranges:
- Soprano: A4–F5
- Alto: F4–D5
- Tenor: C4–A4
- Bass: F3–D4
Advice for beginners:
This piece is a good introduction to English madrigals for intermediate singers. The harmonies are rich but manageable. Pay close attention to tuning in suspensions and entries. Blend and dynamics are key to achieving the emotional effect.
Sound Files:
Here are some sound files for reference. All parts, soprano, alto, tenor, bass