The Ash Grove

This gentle setting of the beloved Welsh folk tune features a lilting piano accompaniment and a lovely obbligato part for oboe or clarinet (both parts are included). With some rhythmic variation and extended cadences from the original folk song, this lyrical setting presents all the beauty that the text so aptly describes. With the opportunity to feature a soloist in the opening section, the texture expands from unison and two-part to a rich choral texture with warm, pleasant harmonies. This lovely concert selection presents a wonderful opportunity to teach phrasing and musical expression to developing choirs.