Song of the Wren

Contents

“Wren Polka, No.1”: This is a lively dance tune from Ireland. It uses the special harp technique of prés de la table in marked passages where notes are plucked near the soundboard changing the sonority of the harp.

“The Wren”: A Breton An Dro is a traditional circle or line dance. Glissandi and rolled chords suggest the movement of the bird.

“Wren Song”: This Shetland lullaby is unusual because it is in 4/4 meter. Many lullabies are in triple meter to suggest rocking or lulling a child to sleep. This lullaby uses repeated melodic patterns and alternating between the A minor and F chords to create a rocking feel. In the introduction, interludes and coda, the harp technique of sons xylo is used and half-notes are ornamented with grace notes to suggest bird calls. The fluttering of bird wings is created by a special glissando technique.

“Wren’s Escape”: The final movement in the suite is a polka.The introduction uses the sons xylo technique where indicated. Due to the lively melody, the left hand uses simple, long chords.

Listen