Reasons set downe to perswade every one to learne to singe

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Reasons set downe to perswade every one to learne to singe. -William Byrd, 1588

1. First, it is a knowlede easily taught, and quickly learned, where there is a good Master, and an apt Scholar
2. The exercise of singing is delightfull to nature, and good to preserue the health of Man
3. It doth strengthen all parts of the brest, and doth open the pipes
4. It is the best means to procure a perfect pronunciation, and to make a good orator.
5. It is the onely way to know where Nature hath bestowed the benefit of a good voyce' which guift is so rare, as there is not one in a thousand that hath it: and in many, that excellent guift is lost, because they want Art
to express Nature.
6. There is not any Musicke of Instrument whatsoeuer, comparable to that which is made of the Voyces of Men, where voyces are good, and the same well sorted and ordered.

Since singing is so good a thing I wish all Men would learne to singe
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