Composer

:

English Anonymous

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

1:16

"Wel were hym that wyst" is a medieval English song that was composed anonymously. The exact date of its composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written in the 14th century. The song is a part of the manuscript known as the Harley Lyrics, which is a collection of medieval English songs. The premiere of "Wel were hym that wyst" is also unknown, but it is believed to have been performed in the courts of medieval England. The song was likely performed by minstrels, who were traveling musicians that entertained audiences with their music and storytelling. The song consists of three stanzas, each with four lines. The lyrics describe the joys of love and the pain of separation. The first stanza begins with the line "Wel were hym that wyst, and trewely cowde," which translates to "Happy was he who knew, and truly could." The second stanza begins with the line "For he hadde sene blosmys sprynge," which means "For he had seen the blossoms spring." The third stanza begins with the line "And he hadde ben in many a stronde," which means "And he had been in many a foreign land." The melody of "Wel were hym that wyst" is in a minor key, which gives the song a melancholic and mournful tone. The song is also characterized by its simple and repetitive melody, which is typical of medieval English music. The lyrics are written in Middle English, which is the language spoken in England during the medieval period. Overall, "Wel were hym that wyst" is a beautiful and poignant medieval English song that captures the joys and sorrows of love. Its simple melody and heartfelt lyrics have made it a beloved piece of medieval music that continues to be performed and enjoyed today.

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