Originally published in The Social Harp in 1855, this revivalist song has become deeply woven into the American folk music tradition. A powerful and insistent rhythmic foundation is laid by the low voices, as the agile melody darts over top. A slower middle section offers some warm homophonic harmony in a setting that is largely polyphonic. The dance returns and builds to a dazzling and multitextured finish. Exquisite! |
