The Wishing Tree

Can you imagine having a place, a physical place, where you can go to make a wish that might actually come true? In this song, such a place does exist where singers and listeners are invited to go – the wishing tree. And though this magical tree that stands out in the forest, beyond the vale is a conjuring of imagination, it allows us to suspend our disbelief for a just little while as we send out our wishes for peace.

Given the mysterious, somewhat fantastical topic, it felt appropriate to let the music embrace similar characteristics. It's a bit Celtic and a bit medieval, yet somehow contemporary while evoking something ancient, perhaps distant. Layers of strings, bells, ethereal synthesizers, and drums contribute to the foundation, while a solo guitar, fiddle, penny whistle, and recorder highlight the modal essence. The orchestration grows from simplicity to grandeur adding brass and full drum set for a while, then back down to a gentle chorale, then back up to full energetic glory.

There are many musical moments within the piece that allow your singers to shine. Especially if you use it all as written, you will find it a delightful challenge for your singers. The audio on our Performance/Accompaniment recording gives an excellent example of style as a guide. Besides offering a vehicle to demonstrate their skills to an audience, it can also be a good opportunity for you to teach musical concepts. Dynamics, tempo changes, style changes – use them as teaching tools to discuss and apply.

You will note that on our full version, we begin with two soloists. Part 2 is indicated as an optional line, and it is doubled in the orchestration. However, if you can use it, it will be quite impressive, especially since the second part singer starts before the first part singer. You will want to feature confident voices here, but if it's not possible in your situation, you can certainly let everyone sing instead. Likewise, going into measure 29, there is a part 3 that would add a richness to the blend, but it is also optional. It's designed for your lower, changing, or changed voices with a limited range of F# to D.

We present a few extras for this piece: audio for isolated parts 2 and 3, an a cappella version, and a unison version in case that is helpful to you. You will find all of these at our web site, free to subscribers.

While we don't say so, we feel a song like this would be a good addition to a seasonally themed performance such as Christmas, Winter, Peace, Holiday, or even Thanksgiving/Gratitude.