She's Like the Swallow

This stunningly beautiful and artistic arrangement of "She's Like the Swallow "contains the original, very old Newfoundland folk text very rarely used due to it's tragic story line. It is in the genre of "beware the uncaring man" common in folk songs of Europe which served to teach and warn young girls about the dangers of infatuation. This genre travelled to the United States and Canada in the 1700's. The expression "apron low/apron high" is a common thread in this genre and refers to being pregnant. "She's Like the Swallow" tells the tragic tale of a young girl who has fallen in love with a handsome but uncaring man. The story is told from each character's perspective plus an observer (narrator). The girl ultimately creates her own funeral bower of rose petals (ripping them off in desperation as she frantically runs through a garden), lies down on this 'bed of roses' and dies. You have probably heard this song many times without ever knowing the true meaning due to significant verses left out. You will need a skilled accompanist! The accompaniment utilizes significant word painting throughout to highlight the haunting melody line. Word painting depicts the swallow, uncaring cruelty, desperation, blindly going in circles, anger, church bells and fading away/dying. The conductor is free to take liberties with the tempi and dynamics in order to create a unique interpretation that will resonate with their own choral group. This arrangement of "She's Like the Swallow "is an exceptional festival or competition piece and one that should be in the repertoire of every skilled women's choir! Duration: 4 minutes Key: C minor (plus modulations) Level: intermediate/early advanced