I Attempt from Loves Sickness [High Voice]: Vocal

Purcell's songs sit at a crucial intersection for developing vocalists: the text declamation is direct and singable (no unnecessarily awkward intervals), yet the harmonic language and emotional range require real artistry to bring off. This particular song gives singers a window into how a master craftsman balances accessibility with genuine artistic substance.

There is an intimate, almost conversational quality to this Purcell setting, despite its serious subject matter. The harmonic language carries an underlying tension that mirrors the text's emotional weight, creating a piece that sounds both lyrical and psychologically complex.

This song is ideal for vocalists who have developed solid intonation and breath control and are ready to engage with text-driven interpretation. It works equally well for high school advanced singers, college voice students, and community choir members seeking substantive solo material.

• Attend closely to the text underlay and allow the natural speech rhythm of English to inform your phrasing, even within the bar lines. Purcell's vocal writing follows the language, not the other way around.
• Shape the melodic line with attention to harmonic movement. Where the accompaniment shifts harmonies, let those shifts guide your dynamic contour rather than singing metrically flat.
• Explore the emotional architecture of the poem before deciding on tempo and character. This song charts a specific emotional journey; your interpretation should reflect that arc rather than maintain a single mood throughout.

This song pairs naturally with other English vocal music from the Baroque era or with later art songs on similar themes, making it valuable for recitals exploring a particular subject or historical period. It also stands alone effectively in any program that emphasizes vocal artistry and literary connection.

• Baroque text declamation and phrasing in English
• Harmonic listening and shaping melodic lines according to harmonic movement
• Emotional interpretation of song texts
• Baroque melodic style and ornamentation (if applicable to the specific setting)