On Yon Far Mountain

"On Yon Far Mountain" is a happy, upbeat song of peace – and goodness knows, we can use that about now. Taking a cue from writers such as C.S. Lewis, the "far mountain" acts as a metaphor for "the other side," or heaven, if you will. When we reach that mountain there will be no more sorrow, hate, war, etc. Rather we will know and walk in peace with our brother, sister, and each other. The lyrics work in such a way that the first chorus uses "brother," the second chorus, "sister," and the last chorus, "each other," just to be sure everyone is covered.

This is a two-beat, campfire type song. Think "John Denver" and you're on track. Lots of acoustic guitar drives the piece, with acoustic bass, piano, banjo, and percussion instruments of clave, tambourine, and cajón to provide the beat. Oh yeah, you provide handclaps on the backbeats of the "bring it home" chorus. And speaking of the bring it home chorus, this song is voiced in unison until that last chorus when an optional part 2 kicks in. It has its own echoing style melody that provides harmonies as it dances around part 1. Sing both parts mezzo-forte, with lots of enthusiasm and bounce to reel in your audience. (A rehearsal track for part 2 can be found on our web site for free.)