Percy Hall

Old English Songs

The first tune: When Love is Kind comes from Ireland, and the second: Flow Gently Sweet Afton comes from Scotland. In political history the Scotch and Irish peoples have spent much time fighting each other, but they both found time to write beautiful love music like these two tunes. The key is Bb major throughout. Low F is the lowest pitch in the 3rd part and high G is called for just twice in the first part. Both songs are lyrical in style and are scored with beautiful harmonic changes. All three parts are scored with independent rhythms to enhance a musical performance. This trio is a must for any band director lucky enough to have three bassoon players, and if this one works well there is one more trio to get: Duke Street Variants.