Fraley-WindOfTheWesternSea-b-SA-Perusal
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Overview

Experience the depth and beauty of Alfred Lord Tennyson’s beloved poem “Sweet and Low” with my choral setting, “Wind of the Western Sea.” This SA and piano arrangement captures the rolling waves of the sea and the inner emotional turmoil of a mother singing to her child. The vocal parts are easy to learn and sing, with a lovely melody that highlights the honest yearning of a mother. The piano accompaniment adds an extra layer of emotion, reflecting the uncertainty of her love’s return from the sea. This setting is perfect for concert performances or choir competitions, and addresses timeless themes of familial love. Don’t miss the chance to experience the words of Tennyson with my moving interpretation of “Sweet and Low.”

If you liked this piece, check out my SATB setting of another Alfred Lord Tennyson poem, “Break, Break, Break” (F. 170).

The Text

Sweet and Low

Sweet and low, sweet and low,
    Wind of the Western sea,
Low, low, breathe and blow,
    Wind of the Western sea!
Over the rolling waters go,
Come from the dying moon, and blow,
    Blow him again to me:
While my little one, while my pretty one sleeps.

Sleep and rest, sleep and rest,
    Father will come to thee soon;
Rest, rest, on mother’s breast,
    Father will come to thee soon;
Father will come to his babe in the nest,
Silver sails all out of the west
    Under the silver moon:
Sleep, my little one, sleep my pretty one, sleep.

—Alfred, Lord Tennyson (1809-1892)