The Precious Gift of Ohlin

Description

Soprano 1, Soprano 2, Alto, Piano — When I found “Born on a Fishing Boat” in an issue of Poetry While You Waitxa0in Colorado Springs, Colorado, I was immediately struck by Ms. Liu’s simple, evocative words. While I sat in the café on a cold January day waiting for my coffee, I closed my eyes and envisioned what it might be like to lie on my back in a small fishing boat and look up at the stars. I “stole” the free booklet of poetry and trudged home in the snow, already hearing the piano part in my mind. I would encourage anyone who is interested in learning more about Mei-Li Liu’s life and work to purchase her bookxa0Ten Thousand Miles from Home, published by Dragon Press (ISBN: 9780976137009). I sincerely hope I have honored her art with this setting.Born on a Fishing BoatI was born on fishing boatLying in basketOcean tide rocking me to sleepPapa fishing all-day and all-nightMama’s washings hanging on lineAbove my headMisty sea washing my faceNorthern wind whispering to my earsAngel of sea kissing my foreheadBeneath paper moonMy little arms out from the cradleOut to the breezeHappy, born on fishing boatBy the sea Ayres' setting of Mei-Li Liu's poem for treble choirs is one of peace and serenity, reflecting the text's images of a tranquil life on the ocean. With interesting and accessible piano and vocals, the phrases lend themselves to shaping natural, beautiful musical lines. Highly recommended for treble choirs of all sizes and abilities.

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