Baloo Loo Lammy

We must dig way back to find the source of this beautiful song whose title translates as "Hush, Little Lamb." We are lead to the Scottish Library and a book called "One Compendius Buik Of Godly And Spirituall Sangis," dated 1567/1600. The original title is "Ane Sang Of The Birth Of Christ" and includes eight verses. We have chosen three for this arrangement.

After the 8 bar introduction consisting instrumentally of hammer dulcimer, violin, acoustic guitar, and accordion, the first verse is sung in unison at a mezzo piano dynamic. A bodhrán adds the pulse as we start verse 2. An optional part 2 and part 3 enter as well in a "round" style, along with a string section. The second ending falls almost silent in anticipation. A suspended cymbal, timpani, tremolo piano, full strings, and concert bass drum swell dynamically to forte as all three parts harmonize the last verse.

Honoring the musical nuance in this song is crucial to its presentation. The melody is in part 1 and works its way beneath part 2. You'll want to be sure that it remains the dominant part balance-wise. You'll notice some unexpected syntax in the vocals so diction is equally important to getting the message through.

On our web site you will find four extras: isolated parts 2 and 3 for learning, an a cappella version for listening and inspiration, and a unison version as an option for groups who prefer not to use the parts.