Composer

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Roy Harris

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Song

Average_duration

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1:17

American Ballads (10) for piano: No. 4, Black is the Color of My True Love's Hair is a composition by American composer Roy Harris. The piece was composed in 1946 and premiered the same year. It is part of a larger collection of ten piano pieces, each inspired by a different American folk song. The piece is in a slow and mournful tempo, with a simple and repetitive melody that is reminiscent of a folk song. The left hand plays a steady and simple accompaniment, while the right hand carries the melody. The piece is in the key of G minor and is written in a simple time signature of 4/4. The melody of the piece is based on the traditional folk song "Black is the Color (of My True Love's Hair)," which is believed to have originated in Scotland. The lyrics of the song describe the beauty of the singer's true love, who has black hair and a fair complexion. The melody of the song has been adapted and arranged by many different composers over the years, including Harris. Harris's arrangement of the song is characterized by its simplicity and understated beauty. The melody is played with a gentle touch, and the harmonies are sparse and unobtrusive. The piece is a testament to Harris's skill as a composer, as he is able to take a simple folk melody and turn it into a haunting and beautiful piano piece. Overall, American Ballads (10) for piano: No. 4, Black is the Color of My True Love's Hair is a beautiful and understated piece of music that showcases Harris's skill as a composer. Its simple melody and sparse harmonies make it a perfect example of American folk music, and it is sure to be enjoyed by anyone who appreciates the beauty of a well-crafted piano piece.

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