This is such an incredible, enlightening, and captivating piece, Richard. It's amazing to see how songs evolve and are interpreted across different time periods, spanning centuries. Each artist brings their own unique touch to the music. While I'm familiar with Baez's rendition and Trees, I had no idea there were so many other versions out there - even from different countries. It's fascinating how an ancient Anglo/Celtic folk song can be interpreted and appreciated by cultures around the world.
And, ending with your colleague singing the song to his students was just perfect. If that isn't a clear sign that you were meant to write this piece at this moment, I don't know what is!
Thank you for these kind words, Michael. I, too, am amazed to see the way that songs travel. It’s like one of my favourite poets, Jim Harrison, writes: it’s not so much that something travels from here to there, but the shape of the journey. These songs go through so many changes yet remain recognisable.
Thank you, Kara. This one *did* take quite some time to put together. It's one thing finding lots of versions, but quite another trying to put them into some kind of context. Fun, though.
This is such an incredible, enlightening, and captivating piece, Richard. It's amazing to see how songs evolve and are interpreted across different time periods, spanning centuries. Each artist brings their own unique touch to the music. While I'm familiar with Baez's rendition and Trees, I had no idea there were so many other versions out there - even from different countries. It's fascinating how an ancient Anglo/Celtic folk song can be interpreted and appreciated by cultures around the world.
And, ending with your colleague singing the song to his students was just perfect. If that isn't a clear sign that you were meant to write this piece at this moment, I don't know what is!
Thank you for these kind words, Michael. I, too, am amazed to see the way that songs travel. It’s like one of my favourite poets, Jim Harrison, writes: it’s not so much that something travels from here to there, but the shape of the journey. These songs go through so many changes yet remain recognisable.
I am in awe of this. The time and patience and love it takes. Following songs through their tributaries is a wow.
Thank you, Kara. This one *did* take quite some time to put together. It's one thing finding lots of versions, but quite another trying to put them into some kind of context. Fun, though.
I am in awe of this. The time and patience and love it takes. Following songs through their tributaries is a wow.