A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square

George Shearing · Other Songs - George Shearing

When two lovers meet in Mayfair

So the legends tell

Songbirds sing

Winter turns to spring



Every winding street in Mayfair

Falls beneath the spell

I know such enchantment can be

'Cause it happened one evening to me



That certain night, the night we met

There was magic abroad in the air

There were angels dining at the Ritz

And a nightingale sang in Berkeley Square



I may be right, I may be wrong

But I'm perfectly willing to swear

That when you turned and smiled at me

A nightingale sang in Berkeley Square



The moon that lingered over London town

Poor puzzled moon, he wore a frown

How could he know we two were so in love?

The whole darn world seemed upside down



The streets of town were paved with stars

It was such a romantic affair

And as we kissed and said, "Goodnight"

A nightingale sang in Berkeley Square



When dawn came stealing up all gold and blue

To interrupt our rendezvous

I still remember how you smiled and said

"Was that a dream or was it true?"



Our homeward step was just as light

As the tap dancing feet of Astaire

And like an echo far away

A nightingale sang in Berkeley Square



I know 'cause I was there

That night in Berkeley Square

A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square

George Shearing's 'A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square' stands as a quintessential example of his sophisticated jazz piano style, characterized by intricate polyrhythms and a unique 'pizzicato' technique that created shimmering textures. Recorded during the 1950s, the track exemplifies the cool jazz movement, blending classical influences with modern improvisation. The song's title references a famous poem by W.H. Auden, reflecting the era's intellectual engagement with literature and music. Shearing's composition showcases his mastery of harmonic complexity and melodic invention, cementing his reputation as a virtuoso pianist. This recording remains a significant piece in the discography of one of the most influential jazz pianists of the mid-century, offering listeners a glimpse into the refined elegance of his work.