Programme Note
A skolio by Seikilos, a four-verse song whose notes and symbols for rhythms were found carved on a tombstone from Tralleis, Asia Minor, preserved in its original state. It was first published in 1883. The text of a separate inscription tells us that the stone was placed there by Seikilos himself. Its age is uncertain, although the shape of the letters indicated it dates from the first century AD.
as long as you live, shine man
be not the least bit blue
life’s for a little span
time demands its due