[1] Brady's poem was derived from John Dryden's "A Song for St Cecilia's Day" of 1687.

Following Dryden, Brady extols the birth and personality of musical instruments, including the idea that Cecilia invented the organ (see note 1).

Purcell responds to the text by giving emphasis to the colours and dramatic possibilities of the baroque orchestra.

He scored the warlike music for two brass trumpets and copper kettle drums instead of the fife mentioned by Brady.

However, although he was a trained singer, the idea that he sang at this premiere appears to be a misunderstanding of a contemporary review.

'Twas Sympathy their list'ning Brethren drew, When to the Thracian Lyre with leafy Wings they flew.

'Tis Natures's Voice; thro' all the moving Wood Of Creatures understood: The Universal Tongue to none Of all her num'rous Race unknown!

From her it learnt the mighty Art To court the Ear or strike the Heart: At once the Passions to express and move; We hear, and straight we grieve or hate, rejoice or love: In unseen Chains it does the Fancy bind; At once it charms the Sense and captivates the Mind

Inspir'd by thee, The jarring Seeds of Matter did agree, Thou didst the scatter'd Atoms bind, Which, by thy Laws of true proportion join'd, Made up of various Parts one perfect Harmony.

The Airy Violin And lofty Viol quit the Field; In vain they tune their speaking Strings To court the cruel Fair, or praise Victorious Kings.

Whilst all thy consecrated Lays Are to more noble Uses bent; And every grateful Note to Heav'n repays The Melody it lent.

In vain the Am'rous Flute and soft Guitarr, Jointly labour to inspire Wanton Heat and loose Desire; Whilst thy chaste Airs do gentle move Seraphic Flames and Heav'nly Love.

The Fife and all the Harmony of War, In vain attempt the Passions to alarm, Which thy commanding Sounds compose and charm.