For a few months, I was involved with a local madrigal group. Overall, it was a good experience, but I ran out of time in my life and neglected it badly. At least I was exposed to some really wonderful music from the 16th and 17th centuries, including this song from John Dowland (1562 - 1638), entitled Now, O, Now I Needs Must Part. This recording was made in September of 2000.

You will need an mp3 player to listen to this song. I recommend Real Player.

This song is copyrighted by the Choral Public Domain Library. The lyrics are provided for personal entertainment and educational purposes only.

Now, O, Now I Needs Must Part mp3 (730KB)

Now, o now, I needs must part,
Parting though I absent mourn.
Absence can no joy impart,
Joy once fled cannot return.

Sad despair doth drive me hence,
This despair unkindess sends.
If that parting be offence,
It is she that then offends.

* There are other versus to the song that are not included in the recording.

This performance is Copyrighted 2000 by Rainya Shingledecker and is intended for the listening pleasure of others. It is not intended to be re-recorded, burned, or otherwise immortalize for profit for someone who isn't Rainya Shingledecker. Thanks.