Percy Grainger
Skye Boat Song
Works Info
Composer:Percy GraingerGenre:ChoralStyle:ChoralCompose Date:1900Average_duration:3:57The Skye Boat Song is a Scottish folk song that was arranged by Percy Grainger in 1901. The song is also known as "Speed, Bonnie Boat" and tells the story of Bonnie Prince Charlie's escape from the Isle of Skye after his defeat at the Battle of Culloden in 1746. Grainger's arrangement of the Skye Boat Song was premiered in 1902 and is scored for choir and orchestra. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked "Moderato maestoso" and begins with a solo horn playing the melody of the Skye Boat Song. The choir enters with a gentle, flowing accompaniment, creating a sense of calm and tranquility. The movement builds to a climax with the choir singing the words "Speed, bonnie boat, like a bird on the wing" before subsiding back into the peaceful opening theme. The second movement is marked "Allegretto grazioso" and is a lively, dance-like section. The choir sings the words "Carry the lad that's born to be king" with a playful, almost mischievous tone. The orchestra provides a lively accompaniment, with the strings playing a fast, rhythmic melody and the woodwinds adding a light, airy texture. The final movement is marked "Moderato maestoso" and returns to the peaceful, reflective mood of the opening. The choir sings the final verse of the Skye Boat Song, with the orchestra providing a rich, full-bodied accompaniment. The movement ends with a quiet, contemplative coda, bringing the piece to a gentle close. Overall, Grainger's arrangement of the Skye Boat Song is a beautiful and evocative piece of music. The use of choir and orchestra creates a rich, full sound that perfectly captures the spirit of the Scottish folk song. The three movements each have their own distinct character, but together they form a cohesive whole that tells the story of Bonnie Prince Charlie's escape from the Isle of Skye with great emotional depth and sensitivity.More....