All Through The Night
by M.C. Handel
Though it was written centuries ago, this beautiful Welsh folk song still invokes a sense of peace and calm in these times of conflict and turbulence. It was our thought that beginning recorder players could use it in performance during the holiday season, but of course since it is not specific to that time of year, it can be used any time you like.
The notes that are used include G, A, B, C, and D. The rhythms are simple, but do include a dotted quarter/eighth note figure that repeats often. Have students practice the rhythm separately before playing it in the tune. Recorders play the melody except during the bridge at measure 13. At this point, the strings take over with a sparkling tremolo line while recorders play a countermelody.
If you have access to the lyrics for this wonderful tune, you could use the accompaniment recording as a background for a soloist or choir. If you wish to harmonize the vocals, be sure to follow the updated chord progression for the best results.
Text is taken from Music K-8 magazine.