"Come on the Trail of Song" - Memley celebrates the Native American culture with an exquisite triptych of poems and song called Three Native American Settings. The original music is consumed with the sounds of the Native American spirit in all three selections. Although they can be performed separately, the set provides a reverent tribute to a beautiful culture. "Shoshone Love Song" - This tender setting of a Native American poem features extended legato phrasing and delicate musicality. The simple piano accompaniment supports the expressive vocal textures. Ideal for concert or festival programming! "Onokenoga" (or Lake of the Gods to the Mohawk First Nation people) depicts an ancient Mohawk legend of tragic romance. So deep was the connection between these two young lovers, legend has it that the spirit of the young girl wanders the shores to this day searching for her lost mate. "Waniska" - The Cree Indians from the North American continent have a delightful morning song that has been artfully arranged by Brian Tate. Beginning with bird sounds the melody line is first presented by the sopranos. A pedal point is set by the tenors and basses as the altos take their turn with the tune. As with so many Tate arrangements, staging is easily a part of the presentation, as the simple lines cross and lift one another. Some suggestions are provided but each group will find their own path. "Spirit of the Winding Water (A Navajo Prayer)" Native American wisdom and philosophy provide rich awareness of finding the sacred in all things. For this new work, musical phrases and rhythms are assembled from Native American chants and mixed with new music filled with this awareness. Native American instruments are suggested with more traditional instruments offered when these are not available. |