From the Land of Song – David Evan Thomas

Composer: David Evan Thomas Instrumentation: Cello and piano Duration: Approx. 14 minutes Date Written: 2010 Program note: The country of Wales (Cymru), on the west coast of Britain, is a land of rich natural beauty, with snowy mountains, deep green valleys, rugged coastlines and an ancient culture that preceded the Roman occupation 2,000 years ago. Wales is often called the “Land of Song,” and the harp, along with the Red Dragon and the daffodil, is one of its national symbols. Cellist Christine Tsen dreamed of a suite of folk songs from Wales—often called the “Land of Song”—for the cello and piano combination. She sent me a list of  favorite tunes; I chose five that make a little journey through the repertoire, as well as a display piece for her talents. The result is From the Land of Song (O Gwlad y Gân). It was the least a brother could do. The songs are played without pause. Approaching as a light across the water, the cheerful “Let Now the Harp” is answered by its inverted form,