A loud and very rich song, in character between that of a robin and a red-eye.

"A robin with singing lessons."

May 25.

5.30 A. M. — To Hill.  Hear and see by the sassafras shore the rose-breasted grosbeak, a handsome bird with a loud and very rich song, in character between that of a robin and a red-eye. It sings steadily like a robin. Rose breast, white beneath, black head and above, white on shoulder and wings.

H. D. Thoreau, Journal, May 25, 1854

See May 21, 1856 ("What strong colored fellows, black, white, and fiery rose-red breasts! Strong-natured, too, with their stout bills. A clear, sweett singer, like a tanager but hoarse somewhat, and not shy.");  May 24, 1855 (" Hear a rose-breasted grosbeak. At first think it a tanager, but soon I perceive its more clear and instrumental — should say whistle, if one could whistle like a flute; a noble singer, reminding me also of a robin; clear, loud and flute-like; . . . Song not so sweet as clear and strong.")