O Happy Fair or The Loadstars (mp3)

Rendered by the dwsChorale, this delightful trio is an intriguingly "out of place" interpretation by William Shield of verses from Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream". In Shield's adaptation, the three voices purely appreciate a stunning woman, in captivating harmonies - a splendid musical piece rightfully integrated into the repertoire of vocal trios globally. However, in the play, these lines are part of a dialogue reflecting jealousy among childhood companions, possibly leading to the termination of their friendship. The scene in...