Traffic was very heavy on Kelly Drive. So, when Brahms’ “Academic Festival Overture” came on WRTI, I was able to hear it to the end. It kept me waiting until then but, sure enough. in the closing section we heard the first few bars of the old student drinking song Gaudeamus igitur, Therefore, let’s rejoice. Let’s rejoice while we are young because after the happiness of youth and the troubles of old age, only the earth will have us.
Gaudeamus igitur
Juvenes dum sumus
Gaudeamus igitur
Juvenes dum sumus
Post jucundam juventutem
Post molestam senectutem
Nos habebit humus
Nos habebit humus
While I was waiting for this tune, I decided that I wanted to rewrite it. The molestam senectutem, the annoyances of old age, have been on my mind a lot lately. On the other hand, I’m glad that I don’t have to endure the turmoil of youth again. Or the petty squabbles of academic life, not mentioned in later verses celebrating academia.
So, here’s my version of the song, dedicated to the all us old folks. Let’s rejoice while we’re growing old. After the turbulence of youth and during an agreeable old age, we will have the wisdom of experience.
Gaudeamus igitur
Senescentes dum sumus
Gaudeamus igitur
Senescentes dum sumus
Post turbatum juventutem
Per jucundum senectutem
Habebimus nos peritum
Habebimus nos peritum.
It should be able to be sung to the same tune as the original.