Amrhan a Leabhair

Whistle
1

This is probably an impossibly tall order but…

I’m going to an informal “let’s make some music” evening next week and participants are invited to bring some music to share. Amrhan a Leabhair is one of my favourites, but I’ve no experience of playing it with others and I’ve never seen it arranged as anything other than a solo.

Can anyone offer any handy hints for a “quick and dirty” arrangement for a group of instruments which might (or might not) include guitar, flute, recorder, violin, mandolin and scissors. (Don’t ask!)

Also - does anyone know of any English lyrics that might be sung to this tune?

And - I can play it alright, but not say it! I’m sure someone here can offer a definitive pronounciation guide.

Thanks in anticipation.

2

Certainly play the version you already know. If it’s played in a group or even as a duet, you want to make it rhythmic so everyone can keep together. Ireland’s Best Slow Airs book writes out all the melodies in standard form implying they are played rhythmically. The accompanying cd’s don’t play them that way at all. Nevertheless, that would be a good reference for an ensemble.
Tony

3

Thanks Tony - I have the ‘slow airs’ book. So would you suggest we play it in unison (as near as we can manage!) or do you have any suggestions for harmony that might work?

4

I’ve only played it as a solo with no audience! So, I’ve obviously never considered harmony. Very un-pure drop, you realize. :slight_smile: I’m sure some sort of guitar chordal accompaniment would go well. (I’m surprised my avant-garde suggestion of rhythm didn’t bring down some pd wrath, or at least snideness.) Guess I’m paranoid.
Tony