Nobody Knows The Trouble I’ve Seen

The recorder feature for this issue is one of the best known, most poignant spirituals ever written. While the song originated before the Civil War, and was sung often in that era, it wasn't actually published in 1867. It was a part of the repertoire of the Fisk Jubilee Singers who toured the world over. In the nearly 150 years since its publication, it has been performed countless times by a wide range of performers from Marian Anderson and Louis Armstrong to Ry Cooder and to the character Sheldon on The Big Bang Theory, playing it on the theremin. The list of recordings and other cultural performances of the work would fill this page and then some. It is that well-known across the population.

Our arrangement of the song is a slow, moving rendition for up to three recorder parts with a beautifully scored orchestral accompaniment. The recorder parts are for soprano 1 (mainly the melody of the song); soprano 2, an easier part that can be played with just E, G, A, and B; and an optional alto recorder part ideal for a player just switching over to alto recorder.

The introduction is dramatic, built on a half-tempo version of the tune. Then, just before bar 9, there is a ritardando setting up the slower tempo that lasts the rest of the tune. There is a very light rock beat under the orchestra, which should help your players handle the tempo. Also note that if you are helping your players by conducting with the tracks, you should probably be conducting the eighth note, for better guidance. It ends with four bars of loud, sustained notes. While more advanced players may attempt this phrase in one breath, if you want those to be clear, solid notes, consider having a good breath before each long note.

If you'd like to follow along with the piano/recorder score, you will find it online.