Love and Loss on the Open Sea

"Love and Loss on the Open Sea" is a collection of three sea shanties , dating from the 17th through the 19th centuries. Each piece was carefully selected to reflect the transient and lonely lifestyles of sailors aboard ship in the age of sail. After the introductory quote, the piece opens with a rollicking rendition of "Randy Dandy-oh!" This shanty, which dates somewhere to the 1800's was sung by English sailors as they set sail on their voyage to places unknown. The quick 6/8 meter will keep the spirit of the piece high as the basses rock back and forth like waves on the ocean. "Leave Her, Johnny" is a reflective tune that was often sung at the end of a long sea journey (which could last for several months to a year for one-way travels). As the crew packs up their gear and prepares the ship for dock, they reflect upon the long, difficult journey. This section begins with an optional viola solo and light, pizzicato accompaniment signifying the distant memories of the crew's voyage. Great care should be taken on emotional moments and pauses. Finally, the piece closes with "Spanish Ladies," a popular shanty from the 1700's that wishes "farewell and adieu" to lovers at port and abroad.