Greensleeves is a renowned English folk song from the late 16th century
Few melodies evoke the Renaissance’s romanticism and mystery as profoundly as “Greensleeves.” This enduring English folk song has transcended centuries, captivating listeners with its poignant tune and enigmatic origins.
Whether performed in grand concert halls or intimate gatherings, “Greensleeves” continues to enchant, inviting us to explore the rich tapestry of history and emotion woven into its notes.
Here you can watch a karaoke video and download a karaoke mp3 audio for personal or educational use. You’ll also find free printable sheet music if you’d like to have a child or beginner play the song on the piano or any other musical instrument.
Table of Contents
- Greensleeves Karaoke Video
- Greensleeves Lyrics (Shortened version – 4 Verses)
- More Children’s songs in English
- Greensleeves karaoke (Free mp3 download)
- Greensleeves Sheet Music
- Greensleeves Sheet Music PDF for Printouts
- Song Info
Greensleeves Karaoke Video
Sing along with this instrumental version of “Greensleeves,” complete with on-screen lyrics.
Greensleeves Lyrics (Shortened version – 4 Verses)
- Alas, my love, you do me wrong,
To cast me off discourteously.
For I have loved you well and long,
Delighting in your company.
Greensleeves was all my joy
Greensleeves was my delight,
Greensleeves was my heart of gold,
And who but my lady Greensleeves.
- I have been ready at your hand,
To grant whatever thou wouldst crave;
I have both wagered life and land,
Your love and good-will for to have.
Greensleeves was all my joy
Greensleeves was my delight,
Greensleeves was my heart of gold,
And who but my lady Greensleeves.
- Well I pray to God on high,
That thou my constancy mayst see,
And that yet once before I die,
Thou wilt vouchsafe to love me.
Greensleeves was all my joy
Greensleeves was my delight,
Greensleeves was my heart of gold,
And who but my lady Greensleeves.
- Greensleeves, now farewell, adieu,
To God I pray to prosper thee,
For I am still thy lover true,
Come once again and love me.
Greensleeves was all my joy
Greensleeves was my delight,
Greensleeves was my heart of gold,
And who but my lady Greensleeves.
More Children’s songs in English
Greensleeves karaoke
(Free mp3 download)
To download your free karaoke mp3 of this song, right click on the following link, then choose “Save link as…”
“Greensleeves” free mp3 download (instrumental, 3:21 – 6/8 – 68 bpm)
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Greensleeves Sheet Music
Click on the image to enlarge.
Further down, you can also access a free PDF of “Greensleeves” simple sheet music, suitable for various skill levels.
Greensleeves Sheet Music PDF for Printouts
Download and print this easy-to-read PDF sheet music of “Greensleeves” for your practice or performances.
Greensleeves Free Sheet Music PDF to download and print out
Song Info
“Greensleeves” first appeared in 1580 when Richard Jones registered a ballad titled “A Newe Northen Dittye of ye Ladye Greene Sleves” with the London Stationers’ Company. Despite popular myths attributing the song to King Henry VIII, musicologists have debunked this theory, noting that the Italian romanesca style on which the tune is based did not reach England until after Henry’s death in 1547.
The lyrics portray a narrator lamenting unrequited love, addressing the elusive “Lady Greensleeves.” The term “green sleeves” may have carried suggestive connotations in Elizabethan times, possibly alluding to promiscuity or misunderstood appearances. This ambiguity adds depth to the song’s emotional resonance.
Over the centuries, “Greensleeves” has inspired numerous adaptations. In 1865, William Chatterton Dix penned the Christmas carol “What Child Is This?” using the “Greensleeves” melody . Composers like Ralph Vaughan Williams and Gustav Holst have also incorporated the tune into their works, further cementing its place in musical history.
Today, “Greensleeves” remains a staple in both classical and popular music, its timeless melody continuing to captivate audiences worldwide.
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