The Carmina Burana, and specifically his cantata “O Fortuna,” by composer Carl Orff is one of the most famous choral pieces any singer knows (at least in the tradition in which I was trained). It’s popular in movies and television as well.

It’s also not in English.

That does not mean that we cannot enjoy it for what it is. But sometimes, having subtitles can help.

Usually, subtitles endeavor to provide a true translation of the material, as in a libretto for a popular opera or operetta.

This is not that.

Listen with sound, but watch the video for the lyrics and graphics. Enjoy!