One of my favourite vocal duets - simple, neoclassical perfection.
Full Title Honour, riches, marriage blessing – William Linley (1771–1835)
Notes "Graceful and not too quick", is the marking at the top of this duet. In Act IV, Scene i, of The Tempest Juno (queen of the gods) and Ceres (goddess of agriculture) sing this song as part of a celebration of the marriage of Ferdinand and Miranda.
William Linley was one of the children of Thomas Linley the elder. Educated at St. Paul's School and Harrow, he entered the service of the East India Company as a writer. On his retirement from the company, he established himself in London as an author and composer. His portrait can be found in the Dulwich Picture Gallery.
Duration a couple of minutes, plus
Performers required
- Two Sopranos accompanied by Organ or Piano
- Women's choir accompanied by Organ or Piano
Source of printed music Shakespeare's Dramatic Songs, by William Linley, published by Preston, London, probably early 19th century. IMSLP.
There is no youtube recording, indeed no recording at all that I can find.
JUNO: Honor, riches, marriage, blessing,
Long continuance, and increasing,
Hourly joys be still upon you.
Juno sings her blessings on you.
CERES: Earth’s increase, foison plenty, Barns and garners never empty, Vines and clustering bunches growing, Plants with goodly burden bowing— Spring come to you at the farthest In the very end of harvest. Scarcity and want shall shun you. Ceres' blessing so is on you.
