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Listen to a RealAudio (G2) stream of a performance of this work by CONCORA, Richard Coffey, conductor.
Download an an MP3 file of a performance of this work by CONCORA, Richard Coffey, conductor.
(a CD recording is available from CONCORA)
Download an an MP3 file of a performance of this work by Bella Voce Women's Chorus of Vermont, Dawn Willis, conductor.
Download a PDF file of the choral score of this composition. For perusal only -- not printable.
Hebrides Lullaby is based on the traditional Scottish "Christ-Child's Lullaby." This setting for women's chorus is contrapuntal and atmospheric. The music opens with a solo alto voice singing the melody. Other voices enter quietly to answer the soloist, perhaps from a distance. When the full ensemble enters with the refrain, the texture is divisi a 5. The effect is to create layers of imitation and echo, as if singing on the open Hebrides countryside.
The work ends with 2 soli, as a reminder of the starkness and loneliness which Mary may have felt at the birth of the Christ-Child.
A setting for SATB Chorus is found in "The Christ-Child's Lullaby." (ECS #4380) The two works are different in form and approach.
Notes by the composer