Follow the Drinking Gourd

Description

Tenor 1, Tenor 2, Bass, Piano — Follow the Drinking Gourd recalls the perilous, night-time journey of slaves seeking their freedom in the north during the civil war. The reference to thexa0 "drinking gourd" is the constellation known as "the big dipper". Those who escaped could use these stars to guide them through the woods and fields at night.The accompaniment was written to lend a sense of mystery about what may have awaited these travelers in the darkness. The repetitions of the word "follow" portray the haunting call of those who had gone before.When singing this song, strive to express a sense of quiet mystery but never with a weak tone. The courageous passengers of the Underground Railroad possessed an incredible strength of will that should always be part of the performance. Follow the Drinking Gourdis the perfect Spiritual for the burgeoning tenor-bass choir as it provides opportunities to explore colors in the sound while singing in a minor key. With a mysterious piano accompaniment, the repetitions of the word "follow" portrays the haunting call of those who have gone before. Not to be overlooked! Also available for SSA Voices (BL1223).

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